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Previous Death Notices
Barbara (nee Burke) Missica - December 30, 2013, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Rocco Missica; sister of the late Elizabeth Turner and Beverly Derner; also survived by many nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Lawrence "Larry" Swist - December 28, 2013, formerly of Buffalo, husband of Gesua "Jessie" Galante; father of Christopher (Marcia Lehninger) Swist of New Hampshire and Simon (Sarah) Swist of Long Island; grandfather of William "Willy" Swist; brother of James (Barbara) and Richard (Mary) Swist. Friends may call Wednesday 2-7 PM followed by a Prayer Service Wednesday at 7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association .
Mary M. (nee Pitonyak) Nowak - December 27 2013, born August 19, 1937, of Grand Island; beloved wife of Leo J. Nowak, Jr.; adored mother of Leo J. (Mary Jane) Nowak III, Ann N. (Richard) Maurer, Thomas G. (Kelly) and James S. Nowak; cherished grandmother of Brian Maurer, Abigale Nowak, Jason Maurer, Isabelle and Caroline Nowak, Morgan and Garrett Haynes, Mark, Robert and Alicia Feldhousen; sister of John (Angela) Pitonyak, Margaret (Fred) Forrester, Barbara (Michael) Trubisky and the late Dorothy (survived by husband Edwin) Podsiadlo; also survived by many nieces, nephews and relatives; daughter of the late John and Anna Pitonyak; cherished friend of Priscilla Nash. Friends may call Tuesday 6-8 PM and Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd.
Deloss H. Krause - December 26 2013, of Grand Island. husband of Rose Ann Krause; father of Raymond (Barbara) Krause, Barbara Turley, Patricia (Michael) Cope, Karen Cowan and Helen Fisher; also survived by 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; brother of Richard (Betty) and the late Robert Krause. Friends may call Monday 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Tuesday at 10:30 AM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to GNFC-Boy Scouts of America, 2860 Genesee St., Buffalo, NY 14225 or to a charity of your choice.
Barbara Duncan Ochs - December 22, 2013, 73, of Port Orange left us to be with the Lord on Sunday morning after a short illness. Barbara came to this area in 1976 from Grand Island, NY. She spent most of her career as an insurance adjuster for Caton Insurance and Brown & Brown. One of her great passions was researching genealogy. She was very active in the Volusia County Genealogy Society as a director. She was recording secretary for Abigail Bartholomew Chapter DAR. She was membership chair for Port Orange Historical Trust. She loved music, singing, crocheting, sewing and spending time with family and friends. Survivors include, her brother Thomas Duncan of Michigan, her son David Vanthoff (Cathy) of Port Orange, her daughter Deborah Salimi (Hamid) of Ormond Beach and son Daniel Vanthoff (Sandi) of Las Vegas. Grandchildren Sean Vanthoff, Cory Salimi, Kevin Salimi and Kelly Salimi. Niece Janet Yuhas and nephew James Duncan. Memorial service to be held on Saturday, December 28th at 2:00 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, 4110 S. Ridgewood Ave, Port Orange. In Lieu of flowers, please donate in her name to Grace Episcopal Church.
William J. Gerspach - December 21, 1923 - December. 22, 2013. Beloved husband of the late Catherine "Kitty" (Csoto); dear father of JoAnn (Francis) McNamara, William (Frances) and Robert Gerspach; grandfather of five; great-grandfather of eight; great-great-grandfather of two; brother of Nancy (Edward) Lewis and the late Gwendolyn (John) Ewing, Paul, Richard (Shirley) Gerspach; stepbrother of the late Wesley (Rita) and Harold (Frances) Williams; survived by nieces and nephews. Special friend of Helen Kasprzyk. A Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday at 10 AM in St. Stephens Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY. Arrangements by JAMES E. GRACE FUNERAL HOME.
William "Pat" McMahon - Of Grand Island, NY, December 22, 2013, beloved husband of Judith A. (Bennett) McMahon; dearest father of William R. (Wilda), Nikolle N. and Michael S. McMahon; grandfather of Liam Patrick McMahon; son-in-law of Robert E. and Carol M. (Dunn) Bennett. No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at Kenmore Alliance Church, 175 Bonnett Rd, Tonawanda, NY, Friday morning at 11. Arrangements by ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435. Please share your condolences at www.cfhecc.com
William C. Krebs - age 68, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2013 in San Antonio, Texas with family and friends by his side. Bill was born November 14, 1945 in Cold Springs, New York and was the son of Karl and Natalie Krebs. He served his country in the Air Force during Vietnam and spent the remaining years of his career with the U. S. Postal Service as a postal inspector. He had a passion for collecting sports cards and memorabilia. Bill was an avid golfer, as well as founder and past president of the Men’s Senior League of Silverhorn Golf Club and a current member of the Senior Men’s League of Canyon Springs Golf Club. He and his wife, Kay, played golf all over the country. Bill was known for his quick wit and great sense of humor. He enjoyed reaching out to old friends from his youth and staying in contact, Bill will be missed by all. He is preceded in death by his parents and son, Robert Krebs. Bill is survived by his wife, Kay Rodney; sons, John Krebs and wife, Lauren, Brian Rodney and wife, Michaela and Sean Rodney; sisters, Carol Kenlon and husband, Jay, Diane Merrick and husband, Doug; brother, Jim Krebs and wife, Arlene; 12 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews as well as sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Donnie and Dean Doverspike. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. You are invited to sign the Guestbook at www.porterloring.com.
Mary Ellen (nee Crandall) Haley - December 20, 2013 of the Town of Tonawanda, NY, beloved wife of the late Robert F. Haley; dear mother of Debra Haley, Linda Gromada, Jennifer (Dennis) Lupp and Michelle (Tracey) Swartzmeyer; loving grandmother of Sarah, Bryan, Kristie, Megan, Alex, Zach, Jason, Elisabeth, Kaitlyn and Samuel; great-grandmother of Alysa and Ethan. Friends may call Monday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Friday, December 27, 2013 at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY.
Mary (nee Leber) Newell - December 19, 2013, age 97, of Grand Island; wife of the late Charles E. Newell; mother of Gerald (Nancy) Newell, Donna (Murray) McGilveary and Diane Smith; also survived by eight grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and two great great-grandchildren; sister of Theodore (Gerrie) Leber; predeceased by five brothers and sisters. Friends may call Monday 11 AM-1 PM followed by funeral services at 1 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Grace M. (nee Cawley) Cosgrove - December 13, 2013, age 94, of Grand Island; wife of 68 years of the late Robert F. Cosgrove; mother of Robert P. (Marilynn) Cosgrove and Joan (Victor) Dekany; grandmother of Jason Wolski and Jennifer (William) Goodine; great grandmother of Katherine Grace, Thomas and Matilyn Wolski; sister of Joseph (Mary Ann) and the late John and Claire Cawley; daughter of the late John and Genevieve Cawley; a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, the family will received friends Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church prior to the Mass.
John Beishline - Jan. 4, 1931 – Dec. 10, 2013
John Beishline, a prominent figure in Western New York’s running community, died Tuesday in Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Town of Tonawanda. He was 82. The retired owner of Beishline Executive Search helped resurrect the Buffalo Marathon in 2000 and, as race director, saw the race grow each year. Under his leadership, the marathon attracted nearly 6,000 participants this year.
“John was a tireless individual whose dedication to running and managing local runs has touched thousands of runners across not only Western New York, but also runners around the world who’ve taken part in his races,” said Tom Donnelly, interim race director for the Buffalo Marathon. Beishline served with and operated Western New York Finish Line Services for more than 30 years and provided timing for more than 85 races each year. He also served as a race consultant to new races for more than 25 years for free and was a certified race official.
Among his other contributions to the running community were serving as the marathon race director for the World University Games in Buffalo in 1993 and as race director for the World Veterans Games and for the Engineering Run for 27 years. He also organized the Bullfeathers/Nickel City Run in 1989 and was president of the Niagara Region of USA Track and Field from 1991 to 1996.
His individual running career included many local, sectional, national and international races, and he completed the Boston Marathon in three hours, 20 minutes. He was among the first to be inducted into the Western New York Runners Hall of Fame. Mr. Beishline was the executive administrative director and two-time past president of the Engineering Society of Buffalo and a longtime member of Augustana Lutheran Church.
Survivors include his wife, Joanne; three sons, James, Richard and John R. Jr.; two daughters, Denise Schneider and Michelle, a stepdaughter, Debi Coleman; a sister, Judy Persing, and a brother, Thomas. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday in Augustana Lutheran Church, 3143 Eggert Road, Town of Tonawanda.
Eleanor Lewis Henderson - Age 98, of Grand Island passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2013. She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas P. Henderson, and her sister, Helen Hudson of Amityville. Survivors include two sons, Douglas Bruce Henderson (Susan H. Gingrasso) of Stevens Point, WI, and David Lewis Henderson (Patricia) of Grand Island. Surviving grandchildren are Jonathan, Michael, Eleanor, Phillip, and Timothy Henderson (Christina Silva), and one great-grandson, Mason Henderson. Private family services were held with burial at Elmlawn Cemetery. The family wishes to thank the staff at Beechwood Continuing Care, where Eleanor had wonderful care for nearly eight years. Memorial gifts may be made to University Presbyterian Church (Buffalo) or Beechwood Continuing Care (Getzville).
Frances H. (nee Grisanti) Clarke - Suddenly December 10, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of the late Gillman "Clarkey" Clarke; mother of JoAnn (Dan) Linenfelser and Gillman (Arlene) Clarke; grandmother of Christina (Vince) Ramsperger, Daniel (Jenine) and Matthew (Teresa) Linenfelser, Mary Jo (Paul) Soto, Cody (Natalie) and Sam Clarke; great-grandmother of Sarah, Maria and Mark Ramsperger, Samuel, Hannah, Katrina, Noelle, Elijah and Annabell Linenfelser, James and Lucas Soto and Jackson Clarke; sister of Joseph McKissock, Josephine Granata and the late Peter Grisanti and Frank McKissock; daughter of the late Frances and Josephine Grisanti. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Women & Children's Hospital of Buffalo Children's Lung Center.
Frederick Spiller - December 8, 2013, of Grand Island, husband of the late Allene Florence Spiller; father of Cheryl A. Young, Frederick J. (Debra) Spiller, Deborah L. (Martin) Remmes, Diane S. (John) McDonough and the late Jacqueline Spiller; grandfather of George (Chelsea) and Dylan (Lisa) Witnauer, Ashley, Jessica and Cole Remmes, Ryan and Brandon McDonough; also survived by six great-grandchildren; brother of the late Dorothy Moyer. Friends may call Tuesday 3-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand island. Funeral Services will be private. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association.
Melissa Rondenelli - December 5, 2013 of Grand Island, NY, formerly of Brocton, NY; loving partner of Mark Gioele of Grand Island, NY; sister of Robert E. (Sheila) Spellenberg of Erie, PA, Francine (Rondenell) of Fredonia, NY, Stephanie Rondenell of Colorado, Julianna Rondenell, Maree Rondenell, both of California and Gina Rondenell of Dunkirk, NY; predeceased by her parents Joseph and Lois Rondenelli and her husband of Cary Speier, brother Rick Spellenberg. Friends may call at the MORSE FUNERAL HOME, 51 Highland Ave., Brocton, NY from 2-4 and 7-9 PM Monday where funeral services will be held Tuesday, at 11 AM. The Rev. Larry Morrison will officiate. Private Interment will be in the Portland Evergreen Cemetery. Friends may call at the MORSE FUNERAL HOME from 2-4 and 7-9 PM Monday. Flowers gratefully declined. Family suggests memorials be made to UNIYTS, 100 Broadway, Buffalo, NY or the S.P.C.A. or to an animal shelter of one's choice..
Robert H. "Jelly" Milkas - 55, passed away Wednesday, December 4, 2013. Jelly was the owner of Jell-E's Bar in Ravena. He retired after many years of service with CSX. Survivors include his mother, Ethel Milkas; brothers, Richard and Ronald Milkas; seven nieces and nephews and many friends. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, December 7 at the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena. Contributions in memory of Jelly may be made to Ravena Mid Hudson Pop Warner, PO Box 243, Ravena, NY 12143.
Ryan J. Griffiths - Unexpectedly December 4, 2013, of Grand Island; beloved son of Kevin and Kimberly (Romanchock) Griffiths; dear brother of Collin (Carol) Griffiths and Mallory (Jordan) Krieger; cherished grandson of Albert and Ann Griffiths, Charles and Frances Romanchock; leaving behind his loved girlfriend Stephanie and his dogs Amos and Monstro. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church (Old Church), 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Eileen (nee Licata) Davisson - Of Grand Island, entered into rest December 8, 2013, beloved wife of Robert F. Davisson; devoted stepmother of Lori (Tim) Rowles, Robert Davisson and David (Kelly) Davisson; cherished step-grandmother of Amanda, Jake, Jordan and Cody; loving daughter of the late Angelo and Rose Licata; dear sister of Raymond Licata and Judy (Russell) Dare; also survived by nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan on Tuesday from 4-8 PM where the Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday morning at 11:30 o'clock. Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Eileen's memory to The American Cancer Society . Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Barbara Jean (nee Dobmeier) Dubbs - November 16, 2013, in Philadelphia, formerly of Buffalo, beloved wife of John Dubbs; mother of Capt. Brian (Lindsay) Burgoon and Kelly Dubbs; grandmother of Bennett Burgoon; daughter of Richard J. and Genevieve McNeil Dobmeier; sister of Mary Lynn (David) Lenz, Catherine (Glenn) Edginton, Sally (Michael) McMahon, Suzanne Dobmeier, Jacqueline (Kenneth) DeSimone and the late Brian Dobmeier; also survived by cousins, nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Barbara's life Sunday at 12:30 PM at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Arrangements by the CARLTON A. ULLRICH FUNERAL HOME, INC.
Kelli Jane Mesmer - 23, of Boerne, TX, passed away on November 22, 2013. She was born in Cape Girardeau, Missouri on July 23, 1990 to Kerri & Garey Mesmer. Kelli graduated from Boerne High School and went on to help children in need, which she enjoyed immensely. Kelli loved to read and to spend time with her family, which she held close to her heart. She was a beautiful, intelligent girl with a heart of gold who left us too soon. She was preceded in death by her mother, Kerri Dawn Mesmer. Kelli is survived by her sister Kate & husband Tyler Roy their daughter, Ryane; her father, Garey Mesmer & stepmother, Carol Raines, stepbrothers James & Kyle. Several aunts, uncles and cousins including: Tommy & Ginny Lipe their children Kendel, Christian, Addison & Olivia; Tim & Debbie Mesmer; Darryl & Lori Mesmer and their daughter, Brittany; Mark & Kim Hamersmith their children Patrick & Joseph and, her Grandparents Dave & Donna Mesmer along with many other relatives and friends and her beloved dog Dexter. Kelli was loved by all and will be greatly missed. On Saturday, December 14, 2013 at 11:00 AM at St. Helena's Episcopal Church Kelli Jane's wonderful spirit, joy, and talents will be celebrated together with and in memory of her loving mother, Kerri Dawn Mesmer.
Bruce Frederick Dent - Passed away, suddenly, on Sunday, December 1, 2013 at his home on Grand Island. He was the son of the late L. Bruce and Marian (Fribert) Dent. Survivors include his wife, Robin (Lineberger) Dent; daughter, Erin (Kevin Petz) Dent; sisters, Lorraine (Joseph Halka) Gorman and Christine (Henry) van Driel; one aunt and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Bruce was employed as Vice President for HSBC, where he worked for over thirty years. A Celebration of Bruce's Life will be held on Thursday, December 5th beginning at 7:30 PM in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (716-297-9007). In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Natural Heritage Trust, 2373 ASP RT #1, Site #3, Salamanca, NY 14779 or to the Buffalo Zoo, 300 Parkside Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214-1999. To leave a personal message for the family, please visit www.ottoredanz.com.
Lawrence B. "Larry" Furnia - November 29, 2013, of Grand Island, beloved husband of Colleen. Dearest stepfather of DJ (Tracy) Rinker; loving Papa of Dylan and Logan Rinker; cherished brother of Anna Mae (Harry) Kunsman, CJ (Barb) Furnia, Robert (Claudia) Furnia, Helen (Bill) Peets, Janet (Loyd) Roscoe, William (Nanette) Furnia and the late Jack (survived by wife Marilyn) Furnia; brother-in-law of Britt and Judy Brown; survived by many loving nieces, nephews and dear friends. Friends may call Tuesday 2-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Barry Lee Hamilton - 69, passed away September 28, 2013 at his home in Chatsworth, California. Barry was born in Buffalo, New York to Harry and Lois Hamilton on January 22, 1944. After living briefly in Kenmore, the Hamilton’s moved to Grand Island on Kirkwood Drive across the street from Barry’s grandparents Roy and Gladys Tenbrook. The Tenbrooks had built the very first house on Kirkwood Drive in the mid 1940’s. Barry attended Charlotte Sidway School and the family attended Trinity Methodist Church on Whitehaven Road.
In 1956 the family moved to Santa Monica, California where Barry attended John Adams Junior High and graduated from Santa Monica High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley and worked in the financial industry for over 40 years. Barry had a true love of nature and animals; making frequent trips to both the mountains and the beaches. His favorite places were Hawaii and Lake Tahoe. Barry and his wife Emily just recently enjoyed a trip to Grand Island.
Barry is survived by his wife of 36 years, Emily, three daughters; Shannon Hamilton of Los Angeles, CA, Christina Hamilton of Santa Monica, CA, Alex (Jason) Paisley of Moorpark, CA. and granddaughter Katelyn Paisley. He is also survived by his sister Diane Hamilton Adams of Los Angeles, CA and six cousins; Ron Levea of Kenmore, NY, Beverly Levea of Denver CO, Marcia (Roccie) Pisano of Williamsville, NY, David (Sue) Hamilton of Hendersonville, NC, Craig (Martha Lynn) Hamilton of Nashville, TN and Cyndy (Bill) Hinton of Franklin, TN.
Marilyn E. Couch - Of Henrietta, NY, formerly of Grand Island, NY, November 25, 2013, predeceased by her husband Richard J.; survived by her daughters Vala (Spencer) O'Boyle, Linda (Michael, Ph.D.) Faletto, Marla (Chris) Wendel and Debra Couch (Sanjog Misra, Ph.D.); six grandchildren: Greg, Erica and Richard Faletto, Nicholas and Daniel Wendel, Siddharth Misra. Friends may call at Jennings, Nulton & Mattle Funeral Home, 1704 Penfield Rd., Penfield, NY 14526, Friday 4-6 PM. Marilyn's Memorial Service will be held Saturday, 11 AM, at St. Timothy's Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island 14072. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a charity of your choice in her memory.
James Tomkins - Dec. 24, 1935 – Nov. 22, 2013
James Tomkins, of Grand Island, a local business owner and general contractor in Western New York for more than 50 years who performed carpentry at the Darwin Martin House, died Friday in Kenmore Mercy Hospital after a short illness. He was 77.
Mr. Tomkins was raised in Buffalo’s Riverside neighborhood, but during World War II, his family moved back to his parents’ native countries of England and Ireland. Following his graduation from McKinley High School in 1953, Mr. Tomkins served several years in the New York National Guard. Mr. Tomkins went on to a long career as a contractor, working on hundreds of historic homes, developing and maintaining a loyal customer base, many of whom became his friends.
Some of Mr. Tomkins’ proudest career moments, family members recalled, were working on the Darwin Martin House, including serving as a finish carpenter on the construction of the pergola. In his retirement, Mr. Tomkins also contributed his many skills to Habitat for Humanity, helping construct and remodel homes in Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Mr. Tomkins also volunteered his time with many local organizations including the Town Boys’ Club, Meals on Wheels, Re-Tree WNY and the WNY Peace Center, which gave him a peace award. Social activism, including environmental issues, were ever on Mr. Tomkins’ radar, even before the movement became popularized. As a father of five, Mr. Tomkins taught his children to pick up litter and stressed recycling long before it was widely available. Mr. Tomkins was active in the Nuclear Freeze movement, engaging in nonviolent civil disobedience at the Seneca Army Depot to protest the presence of cruise missiles. He traveled to Russia and Cuba on peace missions; he also was part of a group that went to Nicaragua and built a hospital in the village of Esteli.
Mr. Tomkins was a Little League baseball coach and trailblazer for girls to play the sport when he coached the team of his youngest daughter, Nancy, who broke the gender barrier by becoming the first girl to play in Western New York. Mr. Tomkins was also involved in many community organizations, including the Grand Island Quality Quest, the Grand Island Conservation Board and the West River Homeowners’ Association. He also used his carpentry skills to build a bridge in the Town Commons. An avid woodworker, Mr. Tomkins built boats and other items with his children and grandchildren. He was fond of the outdoors and enjoyed sailing, hiking, biking, canoeing, camping and bird-watching. When he wasn’t outside, family members said Mr. Tomkins could be found reading books about U.S. history or the newspaper. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, the former Betsy Jones; four daughters, Suzanne, Shelley, Nancy and Joan Meehan; a son, James; sister, Peggy Gutzwiller; a brother, Earl; and six grandchildren.
Margaret Virginia Ridgway "Dena" Kunkel - November 12, 2013, longtime Grand Island resident, wife of the late Karl Kunkel; mother of Lilith Kunkel, Helen Dwyer and Emily (Gary) Dahlstrom; grandmother of Eric (Adrienne) Dahlstrom, Jolie (Andrew) Bourgeois, Casey Dahlstrom and Thea (John) Padgett; great-grandmother of Isabella and Jared Cook and Cayla Dahlstrom. Services will be held at a later date. When her children were young she gave time to the Grand Island Cooperative Nursery School and to Camp Fire Girls. At one time she was the editor for the League of Women Voters and for the Unitarian Universalist Church of Buffalo. She sang in the choir at the church. She enjoyed cooking, listening to opera, literature, theater and photography.
Patricia A. (nee Ertl) Mikulsky - November 10, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of the late Francis Joseph Mikulsky; mother of James J. (Deborah J.) Mikulsky of Grand Island and Martha Ann (David) Emerson of Coppell, TX; grandmother of Brian and Leia Emerson; sister of Mary Lou Barrett and the late Martha K. Arndt; daughter of the late George and Angeline Ertl. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice .
Traci Ann Storms - Entered into rest suddenly November 7, 2013. Born April 28, 1973 in Buffalo, she is the daughter of Russell and Roslyn Barone. Traci was a graduate of Grand Island High School in 1992. She was a Title and Billing Clerk for the North Towne Automotive Group. She is the beloved wife of David A. Storms; cherished sister of Christopher (Sue) Barone; cherished daughter-in-law of Harold and Roselynn Storms; cherished sister-in-law of Harold "Butch" (Robin) Storms; beloved aunt of Rajillya and Haley Storms; also survived by her beloved pet Missy. Relatives and friends may call from 3-7 PM on Sunday at the TAYLOR & REYNOLDS FUNERAL HOME, Transit and Niagara Streets where the funeral service will be held at 10 AM on Monday. Please visit Taylorandreynolds.com
Adam Ruiz - Age 37, of Lockport, November 5, 2013, husband of Kristy (Lanthier) Ruiz; son of Luis M. and Lydia (Lopez) Ruiz; brother of Luis E., Ezequiel and Kilby (Jennifer) Ruiz; maternal grandson of Jose (Carmen) Lucanio; uncle of Olivia and Maya Ruiz; son-in-law of Kerry (Kathleen) Lanthier. Friends may call Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, Inc., 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, where prayers will be said Saturday at 9:30 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM from St. Stephen R.C. Church, Baseline Road, Grand Island. Adam was newly married just one month ago.
Debra Remson - November 3, 2013, daughter of Howard and the late Mildred Remson; sister of Cheryl Howard and Scott Remson; aunt of Allyson and Dana (Seth) Kahn. Funeral services will be held Friday 11 AM at Temple Beth Zion. 805 Delaware Ave., Buffalo, NY. For online condolences visit www.mesnekoff.com. Arrangements by MESNEKOFF FUNERAL HOME.
Sylvia (nee Wain) Szabad - Of Grand Island, November 4, 2013, after a brief illness, beloved wife of Alex Szabad; loving mother of Lisa (Eric) Sommer, David (Catherine) Szabad; proud grandmother of Eric, Chelsea, Kristin, Marisa, Kelsey and Alexandra; dear sister of Barbara (Norman) Holmes; also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends received on Friday (November 8th) from 4-8 PM at the BRUNNER FUNERAL HOME, (692-3841), 156 Robinson St., North Tonawanda, where services will be held on Saturday morning at 10:30 AM, followed by entombment at Elmlawn Cemetery. Born and raised in Liverpool, England, at the age of 20 she imigrated to the United States and settled in Tonawanda. Sylvia was an avid golfer and had a passion for her family, friends and traveling. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Register, Guest Book and Directions at www.brunnerfuneralhome.com.
Douglas R. Juen - Suddenly November 3, 2013. Beloved husband of Judith Johnson-Juen (nee Majewicz); father of Richard; brother of Kenneth Juen and Lynda (Timothy) Maciejewski; uncle of Michael, Jennifer, Michele, Andrew and Daniel. Funeral from the PACER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2275 George Urban Blvd. (two blocks east of Dick Rd.) Friday 9:30 AM. Visitation Thursday 3-7 PM. Doug was retired after 35 years from Niagara Falls Air Force Base and other National Guard units. Share online condolences at www.PACERFUNERALHOME.com
Elvira (nee Case) Lyden - November 4, 2013, of Grand Island. She was 83. Wife of the late John T. Lyden; mother of Tim (Judith) Lyden of Dartmouth, MA, and Becky (Bill) Wohlfehrt of Grand Island; sister of John Case of Buffalo and Karen Nicastro of Amherst; grandmother of Jillian and Justin Wohlfehrt, Brandon and Hunter Lyden. Elvira worked at Case & Case Public Accountants as a bookkeeper and worked with her long time friend Charlotte Guenther at the Bedell House hot dog stand. Elvira worked for many years at the GI Fire Dept. election booth. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at 11:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island.
James J. Capizzi - Of Grand Island, entered into rest November 2, 2013. Beloved husband of Genevieve M. (nee DeAntonis) Capizzi; devoted father of Jodi (Aaron) Louisos; cherished grandfather of Xavier James and Francesca Jo; loving son of George and Ann (Quinnan) Capizzi; dear brother of Ramona (James) Cook; fond brother-in-law of Vincent (Mary Jean) DeAntonis, Rose (Geoffrey) Zielinski and Joseph (Kimberly) DeAntonis; adored son-in-law of Josephine DeAntonis; also survived by nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Mr. Capizzi was an Army veteran. No prior visitation. Relatives and friends may visit the Templeton Landing Restaurant, 2 Templeton Terrace (Erie Basin Marina) Buffalo on Saturday morning (November 9th) at 11 o'clock for a celebration of James' life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James' name to Hospice Buffalo. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, (Northtowns Chapel). Online condolences made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Edward O. Watts Sr., PE - Departed this life October 31, 2013, loving husband of Lydia T. Watts of Grand Island, NY; cherished father of Edward Jr. (Amy) of Buffalo, NY and Jonathan (Andrea) of Alexandria, VA; grandfather of Audrey, Maia and Xavier Watts, all of Buffalo, NY; dearest brother of Dr. Vivian Watts DeShields of Montgomery, AL, Dr. Geraldine Watts (Milton) Bell of Birmingham, AL, Harold (Charlene) Watts of Las Vegas, NV and Claudette Watts Camp of Alabaster, AL; son-in-law of Earl (Ola) Thurston of Tampa, FL; brother-in-law of Cora Ann Watts of Lansing, MI, R. Patricia Crenshaw of Lithonia, GA, Phyliss (Willy) English of Tampa, FL, Steven (Sharon) Thurston of Hampton Roads, VA and Kim (Roosevelt) Wilson of Tampa FL; nephew of Mary Thurston of Tampa, FL; also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, business associates and cherished friends. The family will receive friends Tuesday November 5, 2013 from 4-6 PM at Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, 641 Masten Ave., where a Celebration of Life will follow at 6 PM. Rev. George Nicholas officiating. Interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family in Forest Lawn Cemetery. At the request of Mr. Watts, there will be no prior visitation. In lieu of flowers, contributions, in memory of Mr. Watts may be sent to Tuskegee University Engineers Alumni Assn. Endowed Scholarship Fund: www.tueaa.org. Final arrangements entrusted to THOMAS T. EDWARDS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 995 Genesee St.
Grace M. (nee Tedesco) Calvano - Age 100, on November 2, 2013, All Souls Day, surrounded by her loving family, beloved wife of the late John Calvano; loving mother of Virginia and her husband, Savino Nanula of Grand Island; grandmother of Dr. James John (Elizabeth) Mezhir of Coralville, IA, John Joseph (Jennifer) Mezhir of Grand Island; great-grandmother of Malinee Grace, Anjali Mary, Kate Sophia, Jack Michael and Max Joseph Mezhir; aunt of Jeanette (late Carl) Gemmati, Tom (late Gloria) Etopio and Philip (Cheryl) Valore; beloved friend of Amy Lou Taylor; also survived by several other nieces, nephews, cousins and predeceased by five brothers and two sisters. Visitation will be Tuesday from 3-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's RC Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Everyone assemble at church. Interment will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Grace's memory to St. Stephen's Roman Catholic Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.
Fred (James) Mumm - 77, passed away on Tuesday, October 15th at HOSPICE of Buffalo after a long battle with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Diabetes. Fred is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years; Janet (Radder) Mumm and his daughter, Heidi Sue (Mumm) McCormick and son-in-law Scott McCormick. He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Seville and sister in-laws, Sue Radder and Carol Murphy as well as his Mother in-law Helen Radder. Fred is predeceased by his parents Charles and Gertrude (James) Mumm, his sister Patricia Loomes his father in-law Rollie Radder and sister in-law Marilyn Radder. Fred is also father to his beloved dogs Buddy and Dixi as well as his cats: George, Sami and Toni, grand-doggies Biscuit and Sadie. He joins Seymor, Tippy, Puddin, Muffy, Sally, Patches, Patti, Mikey, Alex and Chelsea in Heaven’s Ark. Mr. Mumm is also survived by his many “ladybug” grandchildren.
Fred grew up in Williamsville, NY. He was a member of the National Guard and he worked for Dunlop Tire as an accountant for 36 years. He took early retirement in 1991 due to personal medical issues. Fred married Janet Radder in 1966 and took his family on many trips to Florida. He enjoyed his time as a Baseball coach in the Williamsville Little League program as well as being a “surrogate” parent to many Son Light Singers. He was honored by the American Red Cross as a 5 gallon plus blood donor and Teddy’s Islettes for never missing one of his daughter’s parades in 13 years. In 1987 his daughter became the director of The Islettes’ Elite Baton Team and he became the honored grandfather to over 100 Ladybug Twirlers. He spent many years as equipment manager for the “chicks with silver spinning sticks”. During the last few years of his life, as travel became more difficult his focus went to his animals. His love for his 4 legged children kept him fighting his illnesses. Fred was thankful for the support of the Islettes’ Elite Families, the Grand Island Fire Co., Trinity United Methodist Church and the WRBC men who built his ramp. His last few days were spent at Hospice with his wife, daughter, son (in-law) and his puppies. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to the SPCA or the Grand Island Fire Company.
Michael Sciole - of Spring Hill, (formerly of Grand Island, NY) passed a-way suddenly at the age of 49 years, on Oct. 23, 2013. He was predeceased by his father Daniel J. Sciole. Survived by his loving mother Carrie Sciole, and mother-in-law Shirley Kneeppel; his devoted wife of 18 years Melody Sciole (Kneeppel). Lovingly remembered by his 2 sons, Thomas (Renee) Carlisto, and Wesley (Tara) Carlisto; 5 grandchildren, Haley, Chase, Gage, Nevaeh, and Jada. His siblings include 2 brothers, John (Deanna) Sciole, and Daniel (Karen) Sciole. Many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Special thanks to close family friend Tabatha Cadro. Michael was a graduate of Grand Island High School. He believed in rescuing animals as well as adopting them. His hobbies included watching the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres as well as spending time with his family. Michael was a profesional car hauler and Union Steward for Teamsters Local 79, also helped organize for the Teamsters. Viewing will be on Oct. 28, from 5-7, service following at the Trinity Memorial Gardens, 12609 Memorial Drive, Trinity. Flowers gratefully declined. In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Alzheimer's Association are gratefully appreciated. To donate online WWW.ALZFDN.ORG, by phone 1-800-272-3900. By mail checks may be made out to Alzheimer's Association , P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC. 20090-6011
Bruce W. Carlson - October 26, 2013, of Grand Island, husband of Angelyn "Annie" (Fabiano) Carlson and the late Ingrid Carlson; father of Kristina (Todd) Decker, Sara, Andrew and Matthew Carlson; grandfather of Kaitlyn Decker; son-in-law of Marion P. Fabiano and Louis R. Fabiano; brother-in-law of Mary (Jim) Egloff, Louis (Lisa) and Peter Fabiano; uncle of Mary, Nicholas and Joseph Egloff, Louie, Danny, Tommy, Sammy and Angelina Fabiano. Friends may call Tuesday 5-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice .
Henry E. Gates Jr. - Of Grand Island, entered into rest October 25, 2013. Husband of Mary (nee Incorvia) Gates; devoted father of Paul (Sharon) Gates and Lisa (Frank) Emiliani; cherished grandfather of Allison (Thomas) Duffy, Jeffrey (Laura Nightingale) Gates, Lindsay (Robert) Lopez and Jonathan (Lisa) Emiliani; adored great-grandfather of Aiden, Madeline, Jack, Greyson and Grant; loving son of the late Earl and Agnes Gates; dear brother-in-law of Carmela and Ed Vara; also survived by relatives and many friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan, on Sunday from 3-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Amelia's Church, 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda, on Monday morning at 9 o'clock. (Please assemble at church.) Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Mr. Gates was a Marine Corps veteran of the WW II Era. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation in memory of Mr. Gates. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Erin L. Georgeson - October 22, 2013, formerly of Grand Island, daughter of Van P. Georgeson and Cheryl Petroci; granddaughter of Alfred and the late Shirley Osypian, and the late James and Ann Georgeson; also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends may call Sunday 2-4 PM followed by funeral services Sunday at 4 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice . -
Richard N. Raham - Age 82, of Grand Island, October 23 2013, beloved husband of the late Barbara J. Raham; devoted father of Rod (Brooke) Raham and Susan (William) Walsh; loving grandfather of Jennifer (Tim) Cramer, Shawn (Danielle) Walsh and Jessica Walsh. No prior visitation. A private funeral service and interment will be held at Elmlawn Cemetery, Tonawanda. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo. Mr. Raham retired from Occidental Chemical Corporation after 36 years of service.
Donna R. (nee Ellis ) Briggs - October 22, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of Raymond F. Briggs; mother of Julia I. Garam and the late Jerry and Jeffery; sister of Patricia (late Mel) Rupp and the late Alice Montz and Fred Ellis; daughter of the late Irene and Raymond Ellis. Friends may call Thursday and Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Eleanor A. Norton - October 15, 2013, of Grand Island. Former wife of Rodney W. Norton; beloved mother of Michael P. (Pamela J.) Ball, Rodney E. (Amy L.) and Timothy A. (Kathleen N.) Norton; also survived by four grandchildren and several nieces and nephews; sister of Edith Athens and Albert N. Ball, Jr. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.
Frank H. Accardi - October 14, 2013, of Grand Island, husband of the late Bernice Accardi; brother of John (the late June) Accardi and Florence (the late Edward) Seier; predeceased by five brothers and sisters; also survived by nieces and nephews. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Charles A. Switzer - Of Grand Island, passed away on Friday, October 4, 2013 after a brief illness. He was 87. He was born in Niagara Falls on September 2, 1926, a son of the late Charles A. and Marion (Miller) Switzer, Sr. Chuck attended local schools and graduated from LaSalle Jr/Sr. High School in 1944. After serving in the Navy during WWII, and graduating from Purdue University he began to work for Great Lakes Carbon Corporation as a plant engineer. After a wonderful 34 year career, he retired in 1984 as Vice President of International Operations. He is survived by his loving wife Martha (Johnstone) Switzer: his two children; Ron (Laura) Switzer of Danbury, CT and Jane Switzer of Powell, OH and his daughter-in-law Rosemary Switzer of Webster, NY. He is also survived by his sister Joyce Switzer of Lewiston; five grandchildren; Ed, Samantha, Vicki, Greg, and Lauren Switzer and many loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved son Robert (Rosemary) Switzer and four siblings: Mildred Switzer, Muriel Bauer, Edward (Sandy) Switzer, and Elizabeth (Paul) Beatty. Friends may call at the LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC. 8622 Buffalo Ave., Niagara Falls on Friday, October 11, 2013 from 4-8 PM. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2013 at 10:30 AM at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church, 2587 Baseline Road, Grand Island, New York 14072. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Riverdale Cemetery in the Town of Lewiston. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to St. Martin in the Fields, or the American Cancer Society , 197 Summer Street, Buffalo, N.Y. 14222.
Joan A. Droit - October 5, 2013, of Grand island, cousin of Patricia Strumm. She is survived by many loving friends. Joan's life will be celebrated at a Memorial Mass Friday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island.
Robert F. Hoffer - October 4, 2013, of Grand Island, husband of 67 years of Marcella (Kirsch) Hoffer; father of Marsha A. (Joseph P.) Pinzotti and Robert W. Hoffer; grandfather of Marcella (Brian) Panaro, Christine (Shawn) Lodivico and Mary (Christopher) Burns; great-grandfather of Joseph, Louis and Vincent Lodivico, Dominic and Tessa Panaro; brother of Arlene (Walter) Walker and the late Lorraine Mangold, Adeline Schworm and Ralph Hoffer. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice.
Debra J. Violanti - 51, of Niagara Falls, NY, died on Monday, September 30, 2013. Born in Salamanca, NY, she was the daughter of Dario A. Violanti of Orchard Park, NY and the late Lana (Haas) Violanti. Debra graduated from Grand Island High School. She worked at Kimmins Coffee in the Town of Wheatfield and also at Tim Hortons Cafe and Bake Shop, Sunshine Cafe, both in Niagara Falls, NY. Debra enjoyed being with people and having a friendly conversation, but Debra most enjoyed spending time with her family. In addition to her father, Debra is survived by three children, Donald E. (Cara) Silversmith, Jr., Melissa M. Violanti and Joseph A.M. Strange, all of Niagara Falls, NY; companion of Gary Strange of Niagara Falls, NY. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins and one great-niece. She was predeceased by one brother, Thomas Violanti. Visitation will be on Friday, October 4th from 4-7 PM at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, followed by a funeral service at 7 PM.Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online guest register.
Charles Smilinich - October 2, 2013, age 92, of Colden, NY, formerly of Grand Island, after a long illness, husband of the late Ann (nee Martineck) Smilinich; father of Judy (Ronald) Blain, Michael (Nancy) Smilinich, Susan Lehsten and Debra (Dan) Burandt; brother of Branko (Doris) Sedlacek, Helen (Albert) Fadell and Draga Swagel; also survived by 13 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Friday at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME, INC., 37 Adam St. at Seymour, Tonawanda, where funeral services will be held at 10 AM Saturday. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to Hospice Buffalo are preferred. Mr. Smilinich was an Army Veteran of WW II and operated Smilinich Waterproofing before retiring. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com.
Frank B. Brusino - Frank B. Brusino, September 29, 2013, age 82. Born and grew up on 19th Street, Niagara Falls and moved to Grand Island 22 years ago. He graduated Bishop Duffy High School in 1950 and played on a championship football team during his senior year. Frank received his BA from Niagara University in 1954 and his MA from Niagara University in 1958. He also attended Florida State University, University of Delaware, University of Buffalo and Canisius College for certifications in Guidance and Administration. Frank was a teacher, counselor and Administrator at Niagara Wheatfield Central School District from 1958-1991, ending his Educational Career at Edward Town Middle School.
His Military career spanned ROTC years at Niagara University 1950-54 with active duty following his commission in Germany and stateside to 1957. The US Army Reserves followed. He completed many military schools including, 11th Airborne Basic and Advanced Airborne Course (Jumpmaster), Infantry Officer Advanced Course, US Army JFK Center, Special Warfare Course, US Army Counter-Insurgency Course, Command and General Staff College all during the 1950's and 1960's. His proudest assignment was Battalion Commander of 19th Special Forces Group out of White Plains, NY. Frank retired in 1991. During the 1990's, he became commander of Headquarters 4th Brigade, NY Guard and was promoted to Brigadier General retiring in the late 1990's. His Military Decorations include: the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Overseas Service Ribbon, Master Parachutist Badge, Special Forces Tab, NYS Military Commendation Medal and the NYS Long and Faithful Service Medal. As National Guard Commander, he was called to duty during the 1971 Attica Uprising. Frank was a member of many military and veteran organizations including Special Forces Association, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, 82nd Airborne Division, 11th Airborne Division and 1/174th Veterans.
After 9/11, Frank was a founding member of Grand Island's CERT Team (Citizens Emergency Response Team) and had the honor of meeting President Bush on the tarmac in his 2004 visit to Buffalo. In front of Air Force One, he presented President Bush with an Enduring Freedom Coin from his son, Karl, who served in Afghanistan. The media following the event referred to him as the "unidentified man from Grand Island" meeting with and riding to Kleinheins with the president. When introduced at Kleinheins by the President as "quite a character" the President took time to talk about Frank and of all other first responders necessary for our country to be strong. He was awarded Excellence in Leadership Award for his work with CERT in 2005 and later in 2011, Frank was recognized by the Grand Island Fire Company for his Community Services with the Grand Island CERT Team. In the early 2000's, he traveled with the Friendship Airborne to China, Thailand, Cambodia and Mongolia earning jump wings from each country. He also traveled with his son to war-torn Bosnia. Frank enjoyed hunting, boating and traveling, visiting throughout the US, Europe and Asia.
Beloved husband of 22 years to Susan E. (nee Fleming) Brusino; dearest father of Lee (Eileen) Brusino, F. Gregory (Jennifer) Brusino and Karl Brusino; devoted grandfather of Haley, Joseph, Alora, Brandon, Catja and Donovan Brusino; predeceased by his parents, Frank and Faustina (nee Cipollone) Brusino and his sister, Geraldine Brusino; also survived by his nieces and nephews.
The family will be present Thursday from 7 to 9PM and Friday from 4-8PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Drive (corner Parker Blvd.) Family and friends are invited to assemble at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 150 Broad Street at Clinton Park, Tonawanda, NY, for a Mass of Christian Burial Saturday at 9:30 AM. Interment with military honors to follow at Whitehaven Cemetery, E. River Road, Grand Island, NY. Flowers gratefully declined. If so desired, any donations made in Frank's memory will be forwarded by the family to the Wounded Warrior Project. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
James Patrick Rogan - September 26, 2013, age 78, after a brief illness, husband of 57 years of Shirley (Dolan) Rogan; father of Patti (Guido) Burridge, Colleen Milette, James (Liz) Rogan, Barbara (Robert) Moscati, Jeffrey (Ilona) Rogan and Karen (Keith) Call; also survived by 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; brother of the late Michael Rogan. He was loved by many dear friends. Friends may call Saturday and Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The man was a testament to loving thy neighbor as thyself. No one came into his presence without feeling love and joy. He was involved for many years with Grand Island Jr. Football and in the Grand Island business community.
Colleen Mary Carroll - September 22, 2013 of Lancaster, NY. Beloved daughter of the late Patrick and Jeane Carroll; loving mother of Sharon Carroll; devoted gramma of Briana, Patrick, Adam and Aiden; sister of Patrick, William, Sharon, Kathleen, James and the late Daniel. Private interment. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Foundation, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227.
Hilda L. (nee Miller) DeLong - Of Grand Island, passed away at home, with her loving family at her side, September 22, 2013; dearest wife of G.T. Skip DeLong; loving mother of Gary Douglas (Kathy Lynn) DeLong of Carrsville, VA, Susan Marie Cunningham of Grand Island and Bernard Allen DeLong of Niceville, FL; grandmother of Laura (Andrew) Gluvna, Branden (Jessie) DeLong, Rebecca Cunningham, Thomas Cunningham, Alexis DeLong and Matthew DeLong; great- grandmother of Hayden Nash Gulvna and Jenna Raelyn Gulvna. Friends may call Friday September 27th, 6-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial services will be held Sunday at 2 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Buffalo Hospice or Trinity United Methodist Church.
Thomas N. Clabeaux - September 20, 2013 at age 64, beloved husband of Jean (Orsini) Clabeaux; dear father of Timothy T. Clabeaux and Gregory T. (Bernadette) Clabeaux, DO; brother of Donald Clabeaux, Rosemary Daniels, Alice (Jack) Roberts, Roberta (Lance) Kledas, John (Elise) Clabeaux, David (Kay) Clabeaux and Charlene (Jamaal) Hamood; also survived by 14 nieces and nephews and three great-nephews; son of the late Donald and Rosemary (Zwick) Clabeaux; son-in-law of Sarafine (late John) Orsini. Visitation Monday 2 - 8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY. Everyone please assemble at church. Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls.
Jeffrey A. Brenon - Age 55, of Grand Island and formerly of the City of Tonawanda, passed away September 20, 2013, after a long battle with cancer. Jeffrey was a 1976 graduate of Tonawanda High School. Husband of the late Lynn M. (nee Sullivan) Brenon; son of the late Robert and Alberta (nee Brock) Brenon; father of John Brenon and Heather Brenon Golden; grandfather of Crystal Golden; his loving friend and companion Sandra Schley; brother of Robert Jr., Barbara, Gerald, Duane, Nancy, Beverly, Bonnie, Brenda and the late Gary Brenon. Friends may call Sunday only from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St., (between Morgan and Broad Sts.) in Tonawanda. A private prayer service and burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
Richard M. Robak - September 17, 2013, of Grand Island, formerly of Arcade, husband of 11 years of Darlene Robak; father of Susan Parker, Jaime (Martin) Nuara, William (Amanda) Lewandowski, Jr. and the late Richard Robak, Jr.; also survived by 13 grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, family members and friends; brother of Barbara (Robert) Murcin and Dian (Jim Lane) Robak. Friends may call Saturday 1-5 PM, followed by memorial services Saturday at 5 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Russell M. Pecoraro - September 17, 2013, formerly of Grand Island, father of Eric (Jean) Pecoraro, Christian (Jill) Pecoraro, Trisha (Anthony) DeMiglio and Nathan Pecoraro; also survived by seven grandchildren; brother of Salvatore (Amy), James and Jeffery (Jean) Pecoraro. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM and Friday 9-11 AM, followed by funeral services Friday at 11 AM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Mr. Pecoraro was a retired Chief from the Erie County Sheriffs Dept. and retired Chief of Police from the Princess Anne Police Dept. in Princes Anne, MD.
David J. Gross - September 16, 2013, of Grand Island, beloved husband of Carol (nee Turner) Gross; loving father of Duane (Sheila) Scott, Nicole (Jason) Morales, Nicole (Joewii) Tomas and Jonathon Gross; cherished grandfather of Collin, Jordan, Brianna, Morgan, Taylor and Carter; son of John and Phyllis Gross; brother of the late Lydia Jean Gross; also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends may call Friday 2-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Please assemble at church.
Judy Lantz - 58, of Batesburg, passed away Friday, September 13, 2013. A private family service will be held at a later date. Ms. Lantz was born in Dayton, Ohio, daughter of David M. and Arliss I. Rastenburg Lantz. She worked for the University of South Carolina as a Statistical and Research Analyst. She enjoyed reading, needle craft and spending time with her family. Surviving are her parents, David and Arliss Lantz; sisters, Betty Y. Lantz; Amy R. Lantz; Patty A. Roberts; brothers-in-law, Mike A. Shealy; Dale M. Roberts; and niece, Kelly A. Roberts. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Saluda Nursing Center, 581 Newberry Hwy, Saluda, SC 29138, or a Pet Charity of one’s choice . Milton Shealy Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed atmiltonshealy.com
Salustiano Sanchez-Blazquez - Buffalo News Obituary
GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. (AP) — The world's oldest man, a 112-year-old self-taught musician, coal miner and gin rummy aficionado from western New York, has died. He was 112. Salustiano Sanchez-Blazquez died Friday at a nursing home in Grand Island, according to Robert Young, senior gerontology consultant with Guinness World Records. Sanchez-Blazquez became the world's oldest man when Jiroemon Kimura died June 12 at age 116.
Born June 8, 1901, in village of El Tejado de Bejar, Spain, he was known for his talent on the dulzaina, a double-reed wind instrument that he taught himself and played at weddings and village celebrations. At 17, he moved with his older brother Pedro and a group of friends to Cuba, where they worked in the cane fields. In 1920, he came to the United States through Ellis Island and worked in the coal mines of Lynch, Ky. Ultimately, he moved to the Niagara Falls area of New York, where he worked in construction and in the industrial furnaces. He married his wife, Pearl, in 1934. A spokeswoman for Sanchez-Blazquez's family did not immediately return a phone message Saturday.
In a statement provided by Guinness World Records earlier this summer, Sanchez-Blazquez — whose nickname was "Shorty" — said he was humbled by the attention, saying he didn't feel he accomplished anything special just because he has lived longer than most. "He says, 'I'm an old man and let's leave it at that,'" his daughter, 69-year-old Irene Johnson, said at the time. Sanchez-Blazquez lived with Johnson in Grand Island after his wife died in 1988; he moved to a nursing home in 2007. "We did our best," Johnson said. "We weren't going to put him somewhere just because he was old." Sanchez-Blazquez had said his longevity was attributed to eating one banana per day and his daily dose of six Anacin tablets. His daughter had another theory. "I think it's just because he's an independent, stubborn man," she said.
Besides his daughter, Sanchez-Blazquez had a 76-year-old son, John, seven grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. Guinness says the world's oldest person is a woman, 115-year-old Misao Okawa of Japan. Young said 90 percent of all supercentenarians are female and Sanchez-Blazquez had been the only male born in 1901 with proof of birth. Arturo Licata, 111, of Italy, is now the leading candidate to be officially recognized by Guinness as the current world's oldest man, according to Young. Guinness will make a pronouncement on Licata at a later date. The oldest authenticated person was Jeanne Louise Calment of France, who died at the age of 122 years and 164 days. Sanchez-Blazquez is to be buried at Gate of Heaven cemetery in Lewiston, N.Y. following a private funeral, according to John Colucci, of M.J. Colucci & Son Funeral Chapels.
Margaret A. (nee Schiffmacher) Craddock - September 12 , 2013, of Grand Island, beloved wife of Allan H. Craddock; cherished mother of Dr. Joseph (Marcy) Craddock, DDS, Christopher (Jessica) Craddock, Karen (Michael) DeMartin and Denise (Scott) Hendershot; also survived by 12 grandchildren; sister of Peter (Pat) Schiffmacher, Catherine (Walter) Waiss, Marian (Leon) Malcos. Friends may call Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10:15 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Jane K. Goss - Suddenly, September 5, 2013, at the age of 87, longtime resident of Grand Island, beloved wife of the late Martin E. Goss, Sr.; loving mother of Martin E. (Nina) Goss, Jr., John G. (Deborah) Goss, Charles W. (Colleen) Goss, Kevin K. (Becky) Goss, Elizabeth Babette (Kenny) Hoover and Debra A. (Rick) Gaudy; also survived by 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Born in Phillipsburg, PA on October 12, 1925, Jane obtained a pilots license at age 16 and attended Shenandoah College in Virginia where she served as May Queen in 1945. She was a devoted home maker and caring mother throughout her entire life. She was a lifelong Catholic and a member of St. Stephen's Church since becoming a Grand Island resident in 1956. Many Island residents will remember her from the years she worked at Grand Island Pharmacy. Friends may call Sunday 4-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
John J. McDonald III "Jack" - September 5, 2013, of Grand Island, son of Jack and Christine McDonald; brother of Katie (Terry) Benton; uncle of Jake, Hannah and Dylan Benton; grandson of Joan Swartzwelder. Friends may call Monday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of WNY.
Anna S. "Ann" (Soares) Potter - 86, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2013, surrounded by her loving family, while under the care of Niagara Hospice in Niagara Falls, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Jose and Pasquolina (Andretti) Soares. Ann attended local schools and graduated from LaSalle High School. On May 9, 1953, she married Lloyd A. Potter in St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Niagara Falls, NY. She held various secretarial positions for E.I Dupont Company in Niagara Falls, NY for seventeen years until retiring from the statistics department to raise her family in 1962. Ann was a member and former president of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary for over sixty years. She and her husband were active for the past thirty-one years with the Grand Island Golden Age Center. She served as a Girl Scout leader and volunteered at Memorial Medical Center gift shop during the 1960's and 1970's. In her younger years, Ann was an avid bowler in various couples and singles leagues. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting and knitting articles which she gave to her family and friends, as well as donating to church charities.
In addition to her husband of sixty years, Ann is survived by two sons, Douglas A. (Catherine) Potter of Niagara Falls, NY and David A. (Diana) Potter of Utica, MI; five grandchildren, Danielle Potter of Niagara Falls, NY, and David Potter, Anna Potter, Camila Potter, and Diana Potter, all of Utica, MI. Ann was predeceased by sister, Joanne (Daniel) Golden; and two brothers, Fred (Helen of Florida) Mengual and Joseph (Lorene of Grand Island) Soares. Ann is also survived by many nieces and nephews. There will be no prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service on Thursday, September 5th at 11:00 AM at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 616 Cayuga Drive, Niagara Falls, NY with Rev. Dr. Isaac Ihiasota officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Entombment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Flowers are graciously declined. If desired, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094 or St. Stephen's Episcopal Church. Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online guest register.
Rose M. (nee Budlong) Marchetti - of Grand Island, September 2, 2013 at age 83, beloved wife of 55 years to Angelo Marchetti; dear mother of Anthony (Jeannie) Rodgers, Sandra (Mark) Leaming, Mark A. (Margaret) Marchetti, Robert Rodgers, and the late James Rodgers; grandmother of Anthony, Thomas, Regina, Deanna, Victoria, Mark, Angelo, Crystal, Jamie, Stacey, Robert, Jimmy, Michelle, Kristene, Roberta, Lisa and Vanessa, and several great-grandchildren; sister of the late Robert Huber; also survived by nieces and nephews. Visitation Friday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd. Niagara Falls, NY. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday at 12 Noon at St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Rd, Grand Island, NY. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Interment in St. Stephen Cemetery, Grand Island. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Smile Train, PO Box 96231, Washington D.C. 20090-6231. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for guest register.
Billie Jean Harper - August 31, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of the late Arthur Harper, Sr.; mother of Arthur Jr., Kimberly, Brian (Sharon) and the late Yvonne Harper; grandmother of Yasicha and Yahmel Johnson, Michael Harper, Kayla Chen, Zachary, Joshua, Emilie and Evan Harper; daughter of the late Ella Walker and Robert Samuel. Friends may call Thursday and Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church.
Mary I. (nee Deeves) Vandervoort - Age 82, of Grand Island died on the 30th day of August, 2013 at Kenmore Mercy Hospital, with her family by her side. She was born in Hanover, Ontario on November 26, 1930, to Albert and Laura (Barnard) Deeves. She moved to Buffalo, NY with her family in 1960. On February 27, 1954, Mary married Leo VanderVoort. Mary was preceded in death by her sisters Lorraine and Dorothy and her brothers George, John, and James. Mary was a homemaker, devoted to her family, and to serving God. She was a gentle and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed her family, Bible study, knitting and crocheting. Mary is survived by her husband Leo and her children; Mary Elizabeth Clendaniel and her husband Dan of Manassas, VA, John VanderVoort of Grand Island, Jayne Playfair and her husband Larry of Grand Island, and Connie VanderVoort and her husband Dr. Gordon Steinagle of Grand Island. Her grandchildren include Steven Clendaniel of McLean, VA, Jena Glownia and her husband Robert of Richmond, VA, and Michael, Dennis and Anna Playfair of Grand Island. Family and friends will be received from 2:00 - 4:00 PM and 7:00 - 9:00 PM on Monday, September 2, 2013, at KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. Mass and interment will be held on Tuesday, September 3, 2013, at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Roman Catholic Church on Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Mary's name to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
Mark Robert DelGrosso - Age 49, of Grand Island, on March 13, 2013; husband of Catherine M. (Certo) DelGrosso; son of Nancy Courson of Niagara Falls and late Frank R. DelGrosso; brother of Laura (Steven) Petherbridge, Mark David (Carol Jean) DelGrosso, James (Patricia) DelGrosso, Frank J. (Rosemary) DelGrosso and James Proefrock; also survived by aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation will be on Saturday September 7th, from 11 AM -1 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, concluding with a memorial service at 1 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to The Salvation Army, 7018 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.
Robert E. Brick - of Grand Island, NY, died at the age of 91, on August 28, 2013. Born in Niagara Falls, NY to Charles and Nellie Brick. He lived on Grand Island and was a WWII Coast Guard veteran, who served on the USS Kirkpatrick for four years. Robert worked as a Property Accountant at Olin Corporation for 42 years. He was a member at Trinity UMC in Grand Island. Robert was married to Barbara Taylor Brick in 1961 until her death in 2000. Surviving family include son, David Brick; daughter, Susan Kilkelly; grandchildren, Brad, Amanda, Cait and Laurel.
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Robert will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2013, at 1:00 p.m. at the Duluth United Methodist Church in Roswell, GA. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Homestead Hospice (678-966-0077).
Helga Oliphant - passed away on August 28, 2013. She was born to Hank and Anne Steinlein in Amsterdam, Holland in 1956. She had four siblings, Paul, Peter, Linda and Andrew. Helga graduated from Grand Island High School in 1974. In 1975 she married Richard Oliphant, whom she was married to for 38 years. Loving mother of Eric, Bryan and Jennifer. Dearest grandmother of Ronin and Ellori. She was known in the community as one of Jehovah's Witnesses and loved every member of the congregation very deeply. Her kind and compassionate personality will be remembered by all. Memorial services will be held at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 7375 Nash Road, North Tonawanda, NY 14120, on Sunday, September 1st, at 6:00 PM.
Ruth C. (nee Meoges) Beiring - August 23, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of John E. Beiring, Sr.; mother of Robert (Rose Mary) Sacco and Janet (Mark) Coleman; stepmother of Wendy (Ralph) Cretelli and John Beiring, Jr.; grandmother of Nicolette, Jessica, Amber and Alex; sister of Shirley Meoges; sister in law of George Beiring, Donna Rafe and Peggy Hancherick. Friends may call Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Wednesday at 12:30 PM. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of WNY.
Elisabeth Stickl - August 22, 2013, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Peter Stickl; mother of Harald (Margot), Peter (Colleen) and Paul (Bonnie) Stickl; grandmother of Christina (Christopher) Croudy, Nicole (Kevin) Richard, Peter IV (Ashely), Adam, Gabriella and Jared Stickl; mother-in-law of the late Heide Doermer Stickl; sister of Kathy Stickl of Grand Island, Peter Eichel of Germany and the late Adam, Henrich and Hans Eichel. Friends may call Sunday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Monday at 10 AM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Roswell Park or Hospice Buffalo.
Margaret E. (nee Torosian) Roth - August 19, 2013, of Honeoye Falls, NY; beloved wife of the late Harper D. Roth; devoted mother of Larry Roth (Colleen) of Honeoye Falls, NY; loving grandmother of Izabella, Virginia, and Samuel Roth; survived by Special Niece Sally Albertson and Special Nephew Robert Krayenvenger. A memorial service will be held Saturday at United Presbyterian Church on Grand Island at 11 AM.
Teddy B. Kieron - Of Grand Island, Friday July 5, 2013 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital; husband of the late Eleanor (Schul) Kieron; father of Carol Newman (late Michael) of Buffalo and the late Kathy Palermo (William Palermo of Rochester); grandfather of John Newman of Buffalo and Mark Palermo of Trumansburg, NY; great- grandfather of Jacob, Zachary and Zoe; brother of Helen Heist (late Jack) of Mundelein, IL and the late Henry Kieron, Eugenia Furgal and Joseph Kieron. Family present Saturday August 17 at 1 PM in the LANE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 8622 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, where memorial services will be held at 3:30 PM. The interment will be private Sunday in Oakwood Cemetery with military honors. Memorials, if desired, memorials may be made to the Blind Association.
Lee G. Strickland - August 4, 2013, of Grand Island, NY; beloved husband of the late Ellen; father of David (Tracie) and Terry (Clint Okun) Martina; grandfather of Jessica, Kenny, Clint Jr. and Ben; great-grandfather of Hayden; brother of James (Nancy), William (Bonnie), Kent (Michel) Smith, Katherine "Kit" Smith, Beverly (Bob) Roy and Jack (Darlene) Smith. Friends may call Friday 4-7 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave where funeral service will be held Saturday morning at 11 AM. Friends invited. Mr. Strickland was a member of Millennium Lodge # 1179 under whose auspices a service will be held Friday evening at 7 PM.
Adam Sperrazza - July 29, 2013. Beloved son of Lauren; cherished father of Kennedy Rose; survived by Charles and Patricia Sperrazza and Michael Sperrazza. Forever loved by all.
Adam Asbach - August 3, 2013, of Grand Island, husband of 56 years of Kathy (Beck) Asbach; father of Erika (Charles) Basten and Herbert (Heidi) Asbach; grandfather of Lauren Asbach, Danielle (Greg) Verratti and Adam E. Asbach; brother of Heinrich (Elisabeth) Asbach, Kathy (George) Jakab, Lena Racz and the late John (survived by wife Kathy) Asbach; son of the late John and Katharina Asbach. Friends may call Wednesday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 10 AM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church.
John M. Posch July 30, 2013; beloved husband of Millie (nee Wood) Posch; devoted father of Jennifer Posch and John Posch Jr.; loving son of John and Charlotte Posch; dear brother of Kati Posch and Susie (Jason) Smith; also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. John former Grand Island resident and graduated in the Grand Island High School Class of 1978. The family will receive friends at the C. Mertz and Son Funeral Home, Inc. for Memorial Visitation on Saturday, August 10th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM to be followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers donations in John's memory to the Veteran Administration Medical Center. Share condolences at mertzfh.com - See more at:
Obit Courtesy of the Buffalo News
Liane Maria Dahlberg - 85, of Town Hall Terrace, Grand Island, NY, died Wednesday, June 12, 2013 at Kenmore Mercy Hospital. Her life suddenly ceased after experiencing a multi system organ failure related to septic shock and a bacterial infection. A celebration of Liane’s extraordinary life lived will be held at 4pm on Sunday, August 4, 2013 at the Veterans of Foreign Wars located at 2121 Grand Island Blvd.
Liane was the daughter of the late Leopoldine Kodat. She is survived by her grandchildren Christopher R. Dahlberg (Stacey), Adam V. Dahlberg, Ingrid M. Dahlberg, great-grandchild Cayden C. Dahlberg, also siblings, Lena Hitchcock, Olga DeMicke, Viktor Valle and Ingebourg Kurz, nieces Linda Knox and Linda Lessnig as well as a great number of friends and service members of the United States Armed Forces. Liane M. (Kodat) Dahlberg was born December 12, 1927 in Vienna, Austria where she met and married the late Sgt. William R. Dahlberg (1983). Together they sailed across the oceans and lived in many different places such as Europe, Panama, California, Washington, N. Carolina, New York and Georgia where her son, Ronald E. Dahlberg (2001) was born.
Liane was known for her many charitable acts of kindness and service toward mankind. Her 20 year employment career was spent at the Erie County Medical Center as a nurse’s aide in the recovery room where she was also awarded Employee of the Month in 1982 and Top Gun Award in 1992. Upon her retirement from ECMC she focused her attention on service and charity for active military members, veterans, and the organizations dedicated to helping others. She became an honorary life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #9249 where she arranged and sent more military care packages than any other member in the history of Post #9249.
Liane lived an active life eager to swim whenever she could and walk to her destinations. For her family and friends she always added a special touch of Europe in her cooking (especially potato salad, wienerschnitzel and chocolate-rum bon-bons). She lived her life with an appreciation for the pursuit of knowledge by watching trivia TV shows such as Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, reading National Geographic magazines, and watching documentaries, etc. Liane was very much liked by all who knew her as she consistently had a kind smile and keen sense of humor to offer. Her sisters, especially Olga, will remember and cherish the time they spent together on the telephone at 8pm every day. Special recipients of her friendship such as Thelma Perry and her grandchildren will cherish the annual Christmas Eve dinners in her home where she cooked for any and all to share time in her life.
Liane is fondly remembered for generous contributions of herself, her time, efforts, struggles, victories and so much more. Three words to describe Liane M. Dahlberg are ACCEPTING, WILLFUL & DETERMINED. She accepted things as they were, she willfully changed the things she could, and she was wise enough to have determined the difference. Liane represented a pillar of strength and sense of pride with her rich history, worldly experiences, and outgoing personality.
Grandson, Chris R. Dahlberg and family would like express their gratitude for VFW Post #9249 and the Ladies Auxiliary for their part and many years in Liane M. Dahlberg’s life and more specifically for their generous memorial service including honor guards at 4pm, Sunday, August 4, 2013.
Francis J. Offermann Jr. Aug. 11, 1926 - July 18, 2013, an attorney and son of former Buffalo Bisons owner and Erie County Sheriff Frank J. Offermann, died July 18 while visiting the Chautauqua Institution. He was 86. Born in Buffalo, he attended the Stella Niagara Cadet School. His father owned the Bisons until his death in 1935, and the team’s home on Michigan Avenue was renamed Offermann Stadium.
After graduating high school in 1943 from LaSalle Military Academy on Long Island, Mr. Offermann enlisted in the Navy and served in the Pacific as a ensign until his discharge in 1946. In 1949, after receiving a bachelor's degree from Canisius College, he married the former Anne Kinney in Buffalo. They moved to Washington, D.C., where he received a juris doctorate from Georgetown University Law School in 1951 and served as a law clerk to the U.S. Court of Appeals.
Mr. Offermann returned to Buffalo in 1953 and joined the Phillips Lytle law firm. In 1956, he formed the law firm Offermann, Fallon, Mahoney et al, which was located in the Statler Towers for more than 50 years. His focus was on corporate and civil litigation. Mr. Offermann was a member of the American Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association and Bar Association of Erie County. In addition to leading numerous committees, he served as a delegate on the state bar’s House of Delegates and as vice president representing the Eighth Judicial District. For the county bar, he served as director, vice president and president, and he was currently serving as chairman of its Senior Lawyers Committee.
Mr. Offermann received the New York State Bar Association Pro Bono Service award in 2007 for his work on behalf of the Volunteer Lawyers Project. He represented two elderly women who were victims of predatory lending, allowing them to save their homes. He was a past member of the Canisius College Association's Board of Governors, former chairman of the United Way's Professional Division and Lawyer's Section, past member of the Sisters of St. Joseph Lay Advisory Board and past board member of the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens. At the time of his death, he was active in the legal field, engaged in pro bono work as well as serving as counsel to the Sisters of St. Francis of Stella Niagara and Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart. He was a lector at St. Joseph-University Catholic Church.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years; two sons, Francis III and Geoffrey; a daughter, Barbara; a sister, Jeanne M. Lawless; and a brother, Paul. A memorial Mass will be offered 2 p.m. Aug. 10 in St. Joseph-University Catholic Church, 3269 Main St.
Francis J. Calabro - Of Grand Island, entered into rest July 18, 2013, beloved husband of Beryl G. (nee Perkin); devoted father of John Calabro, Gloria (Daniel) Moran, Frank Calabro, Cheryl Costello and Lawrence Calabro (Daniel Castricone); cherished grandfather of Jon Ryan Calabro (Lisa Berke), Maxwell Calabro Costello, Aidan Thomas Calabro and the late John Bailey Calabro; great-grandfather of Gianluca Calabro; loving son of the late Loreto and Teresa (nee Ferrara) Calabro; dear brother of the late Thomas (Frances) Calabro and the late Dr. John Calabro and family. No prior visitation. Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Anthony of Padua RC Church, 160 Court St., Buffalo, on Saturday morning at 10 o'clock. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com.
Elizabeth A. (nee Liotti) Wakefield - July 21, 2013, of Grand Island, beloved mother of Rachel and Robert (Colleen) Wakefield; cherished grandmother of Robbie, Cody, Rebekah and Julia; sister of Tony (Ann) Liotti and the late Pauline Klosterman; daughter of the late Paul and Rose Marie Liotti. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island.
Arline G. (nee Mayne) Whetham - 91, of Niagara Falls, NY, Lewiston, NY and Grand Island, NY, passed from this life on Friday, July 12, 2013 in Garden Gate Health Care Facility in Cheektowaga, NY, following a brief illness. Born on December 17, 1921 in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Earl and Gertrude (Saunders) Mayne. Mrs. Whetham attended local schools and graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1939. On June 30, 1943, Arline married William L. Whetham in Norfolk, VA. He predeceased her on October 28, 1999. She was employed by E.I. DuPont, as well as Dr. Perez, Sweeney & Green. Mrs. Whetham was a member of First Baptist Church in Niagara Falls, NY. Mrs. Whetham is survived by one daughter, Cheryl A. (Amil) Slaiman of Grand Island, NY; one grandson, Justin W. Slaiman of Grand Island, NY, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Arline was predeceased by one brother, Frank Earl Mayne. Funeral services were held on Monday, July 15th.
Wendy B. (nee Hamilton) Smith - 53, of Grand Island, NY, passed from this life, unexpectedly, on Saturday, July 13, 2013 in Mount St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, NY. Born on September 21, 1959, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Janetta (McKenzie) Hamilton. Mrs. Smith attended local schools and graduated from the former LaSalle High School in 1977. In 1982, Wendy earned her bachelor's degree in biology from Niagara University. On April 8, 1995, she married Douglas D. Smith in Grand Island, NY. Over the course of her career, Mrs. Smith was employed by Tops Friendly Markets, Fogel Insurance Company, Maryland Casualty Insurance Company and HSBC. Wendy was an active member of Bible Fellowship Center in Grand Island, NY, and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan. She enjoyed crocheting and going to the movies and drive-in theatre with her family, as well as Bruce Springsteen concerts. In addition to her beloved husband of over 18 years, Mrs. Smith is survived by her two children, Mackenzie and Meghan Smith; one brother, Michael (Michelle) Hamilton and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family will be present to receive friends on Thursday, July 18th from 2-5 PM in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (716-297-9007), where a funeral service will follow visitation at 5 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, Elm & Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY 14263.
Lois E. (nee Wanzer) Muranyi - July 15, 2013, of Grand Island. Beloved wife of 63 years of the late Joseph L. Muranyi; mother of Susan (Michael) Stark and Mark (Karen) Muranyi; loving grandmother of Mark Jr. and Christopher Muranyi; sister of Beatrice Nicholas and the late Ronald Wanzer, Ruth Giddings and Betty Troy; aunt of Darlyne (Gary) Kennedy. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be private. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Erie County SPCA.
Lincoln Jankowski - former Grand Islander, died in Hendersonville, North Carolina, on June 18th at age 79. He had suffered with advanced Parkinsonąs Disease for many years, during which difficult time his devoted wife, Shirley, managed to care for him at home. June 7th had marked their 55th wedding anniversary.
While working at Westinghouse Lincoln and his wife Shirley lived on Harvey Road, Grand Island for many years in the 1960s and 1970s. A library book had helped him design and build his Grand Island home with the help of parents and Shirley. They raised four children: Len, Julie, Steven and Laurie, all college graduates. There are six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. They were very active in Grand Island community activities. Lincoln was a Boy Scout leader, (both sons are Eagle Scouts), designed and built a walking trail along the river on Grand Island for the town residents during its bicentennial, and received religious awards. A Korean War veteran, Lincoln had returned to Buffalo State College and graduated cum laude.
When Westinghouse-Eaton transferred him to North Carolina, he continued to carry out many community volunteer works. He was one of the original founders and vice-president of the Polish American Club, past board member of Asheville Parkinson Association, AARP tax volunteer, Blue Ridge Literacy, Hospice Salvation Army taking applications at Christmas, and also helping with fifth grade at the local school. Shirley is planning to sell their Hendersonville, NC home, and move to live near her daughter Laurie and her family in Georgia.
Robert W. Gibson - 82, formerly of Grand Island, University at Buffalo professor and former researcher at Roswell Park, died June 30, 2013.
Mary (nee Rossi) Cooney - July 9, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of the late Neil R. Cooney Sr.; mother of Richard (Karen), Neil (Jodi) Cooney Jr. and Colleen (Douglas) Evans; grandmother of Angela, Marissa, Jessica, Tyler, Zachary and Katie; also survived by two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; sister of Virginia Hergenrother, Lena McKay, Dolores LaLumia and the late Augustine, James, Ralph, Louis and Joseph Rossi and Sarah Marx. Friends may call Friday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church.
Joyce M. Steckelberg - July 3, 2013 on her wedding anniversary, formerly of Grand Island. Wife of the late Edward "Ted" Steckelberg; mother of Michael, Michelle (Gary) and Joseph (Christie); step mother of Jack (Jackie), Teddi Ann (Michael), Joni (Nick) and the late Scott; grandmother of David, Gary, Ashley, Brittany, Joseph and Bailey; sister of Elsie (Wally), Gerald (the late Carol) and the late Dolores and James; also survived by great-grandchildren and step grandchildren. Friends may call Tuesday 4-6:30 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where memorial services will be held Tuesday at 6:30 PM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice.
Daniel J, McNamee Jr. - Daniel passed away in Florida March 15, 2013 after a short illness. He was born and raised on Grand Island and attended school at Charlotte Sidway before joining the Navy. Daniel was known as a young Boat racer and built his first racing boat at the age of 15. He was a sky diver and was a pilot instructor. He was a Captain of the Civil Air Patrol. He was a longtime member of the Grand Island Moose Lodge. He is survived by a sister Marcy Buell, brothers Ronald (Patricia), Robert (Denise) and Joseph. Four Children Daniel the 3rd, Kristy Wood (Aaron), Michael and Jennifer. His Loving companion Doris Springman. Many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Friends may call at the Kaiser Funeral Home Friday July 5th from 12 Noon til 1 PM with a prayer service at 12:50 PM.
Lucille Mael (nee Roskopf) Benjamin - Formerly of Grand Island and Lockport, June 28, 2013 in Port Charlotte, FL. Wife of the late Firman Benjamin of Grand Island and Douglas J. Mael of Lockport; mother of Douglas K., Gary E., Jeffrey A., Kevin J. Mael, Diane M. Handeland and the late Kathy A. Moran; sister of Althea Wheatley, Donald Roskopf and the late Agnes Simon and Robert Roskopf; also survived by 12 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, plus numerous nieces, nephews, and their children; dear and loving friend to many others. Friends may call Thursday 1-4 PM and Friday 8:30-10 AM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where funeral services will be held Friday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those who choose to do so make a donation in the name of Kathy Moran to the ALS Association (www.alsa.org/donate).
Irene A. (nee Jenczewski) Wrotniak - Age 97, of Grand Island and formerly of Lewiston, NY, passed away on June 29, 2013 at the St. Francis Home of Williamsville, beloved mother of Chester M. (Jamie) Wrotniak of Grand Island; dearest grandmother of Jennifer N. Arnold and great-grandmother of Phillip Arnold; predeceased by her husband, Chester R. Wrotniak; parents, John and Martha (Kluga) Jenczewski; sister, Ann Jacobs and brothers, Ted J. Jenkins, Dr. Casey Jenczewski, Henry C. Jenkins and John Jenkins. Friends may call on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the LABUDA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 356 Portage Rd., Niagara Falls, NY, (716) 284-1573, where funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11:15 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 Noon at Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph at Mt. Carmel, 2486 Grand Ave., Niagara Falls, with Rev. Duane R. Klizek, officiating. Interment in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Lewiston. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Home of Williamsville, 146 Reist St., Williamsville, NY 14221.
Rose T. (nee Wielopolski) Nowocien - Of Grand Island, June 26, 2013, beloved wife of the late Casimer; dear mother of Leonard (Susan) and James (Heather) Nowocien; loving grandmother of James Jr. (Mary), Michelle (John) Doyle, Blaine (Nikki), Kyle and Lee (Jennifer) Nowocien and eight great-grandchildren; dear sister of the late Adam and Lucien; also survived by nieces and nephews. Funeral from the KOLANO FUNERAL HOME, 396 Amherst St. (near Grant) Saturday 9 AM and Assumption Church 9:30. Visitation Friday 4-8 PM. Rose was co-owner of Casey's Dock on Niagara St. and was a member of Assumption Church Mother's Club and a Bingo worker. Donations to Assumption Church Preservation Fund or Hospice Buffalo preferred. Online condolences www.KOLANOFUNERALHOME.com.
Thomas E. Goode - June 21, 2013, of Grand Island; loving and devoted husband of Sharlene (Benzing) Goode; father of Gayle (Dean) Nowak and Eric (Marylene) Goode; step father of Sean (Lindsey) Paonessa; grandfather of Karen L. Goode; brother of the late Leroy (survived by wife Cindy) Goode; son-in-law of Gladys Benzing; also survived by many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law; nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday 3-8 PM, at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Monday at 10:30 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or the SPCA.
Philomena "Phyllis" (nee Montemarano) Capizzi - June 16, 2013, at age 76, beloved wife of 56 years to Russell Capizzi; devoted mother of Maria (late Fred) Korhummel, Salvatore Capizzi, Russell (Gina) Capizzi and Phyllis (Rich) Dworak; loving nonni of Fred, Salvatore, Julianna, Nicoletta, Dominique, Nicholas, Thomas and Tyler; dear sister of Dominic (Mary) Montemarano and Mary (Thomas) Nardozzi; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will be present on Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Drive (at Parker Blvd). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated from St. Stephens R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd, Grand Island on Thursday at 11:30 AM. Please assemble at church. Friends invited. Share online condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
Rita M. (nee Pajakinas) Moscoe - June 15, 2013, age 76, of Grand Island, beloved wife of Joseph J. Moscoe; devoted mother of Joseph (Darlene), John, Maria (Terry) and James (Kayci) Moscoe; loving grandmother of Azlynn; loving sister-in-law of Eugene and Marie Moscoe, Ron and Nina Moscoe, Sandy Williams and Glenda Moscoe. Friends may call Wednesday 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Jo Ann “Sarah” Williams - 76, passed away June 8, 2013 in the McGraw Center of Community Hospice. She was born in Buffalo, NY on December 23, 1936 and a former Island resident and long-time employee of the Dispatch/Penny Saver. Sarah was self employed as an IRS enrolled tax agent and attended Lord of Life Lutheran Church.Survived by son, Jeff Wroblewski (Anna); daughters, Jessica Baird (John) and Gretchen Fountain (Jamie); sisters, Claudia Parson, Linda Andrus, and Rita Zich; 5 grandchildren, Lindsay Franqui (Andre), Doug Fisher, Bailey Hall, Morgan Hall, Zach Fountain and Tina Wroblewski; 3 great-grandchildren, Haylee and Alyssa Franqui and Madalyn Fisher. She was predeceased by her husbands, Harry Wroblewski and Gerald Padula; and her daughter Jennifer Wroblewski. A Memorial Service will be held today at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, June 13th in St Andrews Lutheran Church of Jacksonville Beach. Donations may be made to Community Hospice of NE Florida, 4266 Sunbeam Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32257, The American Cancer Society, 1430 Prudential Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32207, or Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 276 Roscoe Blvd N. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082. Please visit our online Tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com. Services provided by Quinn-Shalz.
Jose M. Ballester - June 6, 2013, of Grand Island. Born January 28, 1924 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Beloved husband of Julia Alcorn and the late Mary Joan McQuade; loving father of Kathleen (Paul Wasiewicz), Patrick Ballester, Kim (Timothy) Taylor, Barry Ballester, Maria (Daniel) Fox and Virginia Ballester; also survived by 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; brother of Claudio and the late Luis, Carlos and Maria Ballester. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday at 2 PM at the Dengler Roberts Funeral Home, 3000 Delaware Ave., where a visitation will follow until 5 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or tell a joke and make someone laugh. Josč was a WWII Army Veteran and a retiree of General Motors. Online condolences to www. denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
Phyllis M. Eaton - June 10, 2013, of Grand Island NY, beloved wife of Ronald; loving mother of Monique (John) Montgomery; grandmother of Ashley and Shane; sister of David Starr, Ronald Starr and the late Janet Hajnos, Marilyn Cobb, Richard and Paul Starr; survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday from 4-8 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT, INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where funeral services will be held Saturday morning at 9:30. Friends invited.
Richard F. Lefler - June 8, 2013, passed away peacefully at his home on Grand Island, beloved husband of 30 years to Karen (Fisher) Lefler; loving stepfather to Nicole Parvu and Amy Liesenfeld; proud grandpa of Mandy and Kady Liesenfeld, Amber and Joelle Woodward; brother of Donna (Morry) Hanel, Bonnie (John) Cirrito and the late Sharon (late Jim) Meister and Kenneth (survived by wife Patricia) Lefler; son of the late Roy and Violet Lefler; also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. Friends may call Monday 6-8 PM and Tuesday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island where Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 12 Noon. If desired, memorials to Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga 14227. Richard worked for many years at Ken Lefler Auto & Scrap Yard and Consolidated Freight Ways. Thank you to Hospice Buffalo Team 4 (Dr. Mahar, Chaplain Bob, Jennifer, nurses Jane and Bob, aide Kathleen and longtime aide Heather). A special thanks to Tim for all your help.
Sharon M. (Whitmire) Palmer - entered into rest May 27, 2013. She was a resident of Grand Island. Mother of Gary R. (Janet) Prange, grandmother of Robert E. and Adam R. Prange, sister of Ricky D. (Peggy), Wendy L. and the late Ronald K. Whitmire, sister-in-law of Susan and Vincent Cardonna, also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday (June 7), 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial services will be held Saturday at 10 AM at New Beginning Church of God, 265 Parkridge Avenue, Buffalo. A luncheon will follow.
Link to Mrs. Glor Newton, 1957
Ora Elizabeth Glor Newton - 100 years old, passed away May 22, 2013 in Missouri City, Texas. She was born in Orangeville, NY June 10, 1912 to the late Jay and Nellie Putney and grew up on their dairy farm. She was preceded in death by her brother, Clifford Putney, and her sister, Bernice Werner.
Ora married the late Eldon M. Glor in 1938 and is survived by their six children, Bernice Pagliaro of Santa Barbara, CA, Barbara Martin of Delaware, OH, Elizabeth (Hugh) Allen of Missouri City, TX, Peter (Billie) Glor of Santa Clarita, CA, Ellen (Richard) Dunston of Columbus, OH, and Eugene Glor of Rochester, NY; ten grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. Several years after Eldon’s death, Ora married the late Merle Newton, adding his children and grandchildren to her growing family.
Over her lifetime, with her adventuresome spirit, Ora traveled to every state in the United States, to over 38 countries and to every continent except Antarctica. In 1936, Ora hooked up a homemade camper and traveled cross-country from New York to California with her sister, Bernice and friend, Florence Chamberlain Merle. Some of her favorite trips included family reunions.
In 1937, Ora completed her normal school teaching certification, with emphasis on rural education, at Geneseo College in NY. She taught in several one-room schoolhouses in Wyoming County, arriving on horseback in winter and in her new model A in the spring.
After marrying Eldon, they moved to Grand Island, NY where they were one of the original families to move into the Village on Love Road. In 1954 Ora renewed her teaching credentials and taught at Kaegebein Elementary School for over 20 years. After her retirement, until she was 90, Ora drove from Grand Island to Arizona or California to spend winters near some of her children, who lived in warmer climates. In her later years, she lived in senior villages in California, Ohio and Texas where she enjoyed traveling, quilting, making ceramics, playing Scrabble, watching her favorite sports on TV and meeting with her “breakfast club”. A long time member of Trinity United Methodist Church, her strong faith has always been in the center of her life.
A graveside memorial service and celebration of Ora’s life will be held Sunday, September 1, 2013 at Pleasant View Cemetery Of Orangeville (Dutch Flats) near Attica, New York. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY 14072 or Church of the Master United Methodist Church, 24 North Grove Street, Westerville, OH 43081.
Scott C. Smith - May 31, 2013, of Grand Island, formerly of Duchess County, NY; son of Patricia Cioffari Cattarin; brother of the late George E. Smith; survived by never fleeing Rose Kurtzworth; nephew of Joyce Hornbeck and Phillip Beltra; cousin of Joelene (Richard) VanWagenen and sons, Lourena (Keith) Gallagher and girls, Joyce E. Cook and girls, and Shirley (Kenneth) Christensen; grandson of the late Irene Smith; also survived by many friends and co workers. Friends may call Monday 3-4 PM followed by funeral services Monday at 4 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island.
Mary (nee O'Connor) Lynch - May 28, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of 45 years of Daniel Lynch; mother of Tom (Linda), Jim (Jennifer) and Dan Lynch; also survived by five grandchildren, nieces and nephews; sister of Irene O'Connor, Thomas (Ellen) O'Connor, Kathleen (Dopuglas) Salmon and the late Jack (survived by wife Marion) O'Connor. Friends may call Sunday from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
William M. Shickluna, Sr. - May 28, 2013, of Grand Island, father of William M. (Tracey) Shickluna Jr.; grandfather of Cassie, Megan and Brett Shickluna; son of the late William B. Shickluna and Jennie Slaght. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Friday at 10 AM at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church. Mr. Shickluna was a member of the Niagara River Station Fishing Club on Grand Island.
Bridget (nee Devine) Kane - May 27, 2013 of Grand Island, born in County Clare, Ireland. Beloved wife of the late Robert W. Kane Jr.; dear mother of Thomas (Maria), Kathleen, David and Michael (Dawn) Kane; daughter of the late Thomas and Mary (Haugh); loving grandmother of Gavin Kane; dear sister of Philomena (Edward) Ryan, Patrick (Kathleen), Joseph and the late Thomas and Mary Devine; also survived by nieces and nephews. Visitation at the KOLANO FUNERAL HOME, 396 Amherst St. (near Grant) Thursday 4-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Andrew's Church, 1525 Sheridan Dr. (corner Elmwood) Friday at 9:30 AM. Please assemble at church. Entombment Forest Lawn Cemetery. Donations to the Arthritis Foundation are preferred. Online condolences at www.KOLANOFUNERALHOME.com.
Iva M. Reining - May 25, 2013, age 99, longtime resident of Grand Island, wife of the late Elwood Reining; mother of John Reining; grandmother of Michael (Becky) Reining, Tamara Miles, Karen Loggains and Mark Reining; great-grandmother of Nicholas, Katie, Andy, Ryan, Neil and Justin; sister of the late Olive Haines, Dorothy Dee and John Haines. Friends may call Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 12 Noon.
LeRoy H. Tegler - Of Grand Island, entered into rest, May 25, 2013, beloved husband of the late Caroline L. (nee Mandi) Tegler; devoted father of Gary (Terry) Tegler and the late Patricia (William) Tegler-Vaccaro; cherished grandfather of Shaun Tegler, Shannon Tegler (Shaun Bird) and Christopher Vaccaro; loving son of the late Albert and Mary Tegler; dear brother of late Albert Tegler, late Ralph "Red" (late Lee) Tegler, late Luella (late George) (late Fred) Off-Schauss, late Ruth (late Tucker) Macy and the late Doris (late Al) Pennachi; dearest friend of Irene Costanzo; also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd, near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Tuesday from 3-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Wednesday morning at 10:00 o'clock (please assemble at church). Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Mr. Tegler was an Army-Air Force veteran of the Korean War. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Suzanne J. Anton - Of Grand Island, NY, May 22, 2013; wife of Ronald D. Anton; mother of Ronald J. Anton; grandmother of Isabella and Brayden Anton; sister of John (Barbara) Zsebehazy and Lynn (William) Burden; aunt of Robert Zsebehazy, Andrea and Brandon Bossert and Aaron Spacher. The family will be present on Friday from 9:30 - 11:00 AM at St. George's Antiochian Orthodox Church, 1073 Saunders Settlement Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will follow at 11 AM. Visit www.rhoneyfuneralhome.com, for guest register.
Steve Kolarich Jr. - Age 64 of Grand Island, NY, passed away on Friday May 17, 2013, son of the late Steve and Victoria (Alfieri) Kolarich, Sr.; husband of Sharon L. (Butera) Kolarich; father of Steven M. (Allison) Kolarich of Cheektowaga; grandfather of Jack James Kolarich; brother of Kristina Frantz of Arizona; son-in-law of Dorothy Landis of Niagara Falls; nephew of 'Uncle Jim' Kolarich of Niagara Falls, Geri and Bob Sdao of Lewiston, NY; also survived by several nephews. There will be no prior visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island, NY, concluding with Military Honors. Memorial offerings to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250. Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for guest register.
Louis J. Quagliana - Entered into rest on May 21, 2013 at the age of 67. Beloved husband of 33 years to Susan (nee Benzing) Quagliana; devoted father of Louis A. (Mary) and Toni Marie Quagliana; loving grandfather of "baby" Quagliana (due July 19th); dear brother of Stephen (Nola) Quagliana and Jeanine (Chuck) Knox; also survived by many godchildren, nieces and nephews. The family will be present on Thursday and Friday (June 6 and 7th) from 4-8 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. 2600 Sheridan Drive (at Parker Blvd.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday (June 8)at 10:00 AM from St. Stephen's R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Please assemble at Church. If desired, memorials may be made to Hospice-Buffalo, Inc. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
Cristine (D'Ingillo) Amtsberg - There will be a celebration of Cristine (D'Ingillo) Amtsberg's life (1951-2013) on Saturday, June 1st, 2013 at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Rd. starting at 2 pm. Cris was a graduate of the Grand Island School system and when she moved away, Grand Island never left her heart. Friends and relatives are invited to share an afternoon of music, food and memories. If you wish, bring a dessert or potluck dish. Donations can be made on Cristine's memory to the Colon Cancer Alliance, 1025 Vermont Ave. NW, Suite 1066, Washington, D.C. 20005.
Douglas H. Smith - May 6, 2013, suddenly, devoted partner of Kelly A. McDermott; loving father of Tierney, Connor, Forrest, Griffin, Colin, Rohan and the late Graham Smith; dear brother of Elizabeth (Fred) Dobbs and Carol (Bernard Grabusky) Smith; uncle of Amelia and Gemma Dobbs; former husband of Barbara McArtney. The family will receive friends at the C. Mertz and Son Funeral Home, Inc., 911 Englewood Ave., Thursday 7-9 PM and Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM. All are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Louis Church Saturday at 10:30 AM (Please assemble at church). In lieu of flowers donations to may be made in Doug's memory to Aspire of WNY 2356 North Forest Rd. Getzville, NY 14068. Share condolences at mertzfh.com.
Kenneth A. Killian - November 30, 2012, age 98, of The Villages, FL, formerly of Grand Island. Husband of 51 years of Dorothy Killian and the late Viola (Martin) Killian; father of Richard and James Killian, Dorolynn Hawks and Christine Phillips; also survived by seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; brother of Catherine Long of Grand Island, Raymond of Buffalo, Walter of Rochester and the late Donald Killian. Memorial services will be held Saturday, May 25 at 12 noon at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Reception to follow at the Grand Island Fire Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Villagers for Hospice, 601 Casa Bella, The Villages, Fl 32162.
Joseph "Joe" Padlog - May 12, 2013, of Grand island, survived by his wife Ruth; a daughter Sylvia (Robert) White; a son Robert (Joanne) Padlog; grandchildren Patrick White, Alyssa Padlog and Cara Padlog and his sister Florence Kravitz. A Memorial Service is planned to celebrate his life on Saturday, June 8 at 2 PM at the Niagara Falls Unitarian Church.
David R. Ziehm - April 25, 2013, of Grand Island. Survivors include his brothers William (wife Lucille), John (wife Paula), and sister Marion Wendt (husband Douglas). He also has many nieces and nephews who, along with friends, will greatly miss him. A memorial service will be held Saturday May 25th at 1:00 PM at Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd Grand Island. In lieu of flowers, memorials in David's memory can be made to the Bible Fellowship Center.
Brooke L. Fry - May 15, 2013, of Grand Island, formerly of Westover, PA, husband of 59 years of Nina (Peacock) Fry; father of Joyce Ann (Paul) Ormsby and Steven G. (Joyce Alice) Fry; grandfather of John, Kristen, Kelly, Alisha, Michelle, Kevin and Maria; also survived by 11 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; brother of Marion Urban, Barbara Fry and the late Aaron P. Fry, Nadine Bernard, Isabelle Lardieri, Mabel Aoldaker and Gloria Donham. Friends may call Friday 7-9 PM and Saturday 1-4 PM, followed by Funeral Services Saturday at 4 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association . Mr. Fry was a decorated Korean War Veteran and served for 34 years as Union Labor Rep for UFCW local 1.
Paul C. Stewart - Feb. 26, 1939 – May 10, 2013, of Grand Island, an elder and associate pastor at Greater Refuge Temple of Christ Church, died Friday in Buffalo General Medical Center. He was 74. Born in Raleigh, N.C., Mr. Stewart had a 38-year career with General Motors, working in Kansas City, Kan., and the Town of Tonawanda. While in Kansas City, he was an associate pastor of Greater Pentecostal Temple. He was member of Greater Refuge Temple in Buffalo for more than 20 years. He was pastor of the Women’s Ministry; assistant to Missionary Theresa Bonner of the Ministry of Compassion; pastor over communion at the Delaware Heights and Waterfront nursing homes; and pastor over bedside communion at Erie County Medical Center; and he conducted noonday prayer. Mr. Stewart retired from General Motors in 2000. Survivors include his wife, the former JoAnn Wiley; three daughters, Audresha Wilson, Deneen Goldsmith and Nicole; and a sister, the Rev. Janet Stewart. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in Greater Refuge Temple of Christ, 943 Jefferson Ave.
John Joseph DeMarco Jr. - Age 77, May 8, 2013, of Grand Island, husband of Audrey (Gilbert) DeMarco; father of Michael, Jacquie and Steve (Diana) DeMarco; grandfather of Samantha Nichole, Michael (Mellisa) and Joseph M. DeMarco; great-grandfather of Donovan; brother of Robert (Toni) DeMarco and the late Susan Brick. Memorial services will be held Sunday at 3 PM at Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island.
Mary Keysa Lexo - May 7, 2013, age 63, beloved wife of 34 years and best friend of John C. Lexo; loving daughter of the late Stanley J. and Louise (nee Siemon) Keysa; sister of Thomas (Judy) Keysa and predeceased by James (Audrey) Keysa and Stanley Jay (Marietta) Keysa II; also survived by nieces, nephews and faithful friend Mercy. Services were held privately by the family. Arrangements by the Zurbrick-AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME. Please share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Paul Reger - Age 75, of Grand Island, May 11, 2013. Beloved brother of Susan Krentz; dear uncle of Steve (Maria) Krentz and Jennifer (Nicholas) Cox; granduncle of Jacob Krentz; dear stepfather and step grandfather of Aprille, Kirsten, Cara, Wendy, and David, and all their children; beloved friend of Melody Randal, Bill Wilson, Randy Wagner, Diana Reger, and all others, too many to mention. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island. A Memorial Service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY Friday at 1 PM. Jesus said, 'Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.'
James S. Salasny Sr. - Age 68, of the City of Tonawanda, May 8, 2013 at this residence. Husband of Elizabeth A. (nee Sciuk) Salasny; father of James S. (Kathleen) Salasny Jr. and Steven (Lisa) Salasny; step father of Robyn (William) Muehlbauer; five grandchildren, three step grandchildren and three great-grandchildren and brother of Ashley Wells; also nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will receive relatives and friends Monday 2-4 and 6-8 PM and Tuesday 2-6 PM at JOHN O. ROTH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 25 William St., (between Morgan and Broad Sts.) in Tonawanda, where funeral services will be held at 6 PM Tuesday evening following visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to VA Medical Center, 3495 Bailey Ave., Buffalo, NY 14215. A US Navy veteran, James was a life member of Grand Island Rod & Gun Club, Tonawanda Sportsmens Club, National Rifle Assn. and Niagara Falls Harley Owners Group. He was a Tool & Die maker and Gunsmith.
Freda R. (nee Higdon) Harper - Of Grand Island, NY, May 10, 2013, beloved wife of the late Paul V. Harper; stepmother of Margaret A. Harper; sister of Elsie Freye and the late Jack (Wanda) Higdon. No prior visitation. Private services.
Glenn E. "Ty" Cobb - May 6, 2013, of Grand Island, NY, beloved husband of the late Marilyn (nee Starr) Cobb; loving father of Pamela Shinners, Deanna (Daniel) Fleming and Jacquelyn Falzone; dearest grandfather of Danielle, Mario, Thomas, Zachary and Michael; brother of the late David (Nancy) Schank; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday from 4-8 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where a Funeral Service will be held Saturday at 11 AM.
John R. Mesmer Jr. - Of Grand Island, husband of Marie Doerfel Mesmer, entered into rest on Monday April 22, 2013. He was born in Buffalo, NY on April 17, 1947; son of the late John and Joyce Valiquette Mesmer Sr. John served in the United States Navy from 1966-1970. He retired from Upstate/Bison Foods in West Seneca. John was a millwright and a handyman. He was also a member of the VFW and Moose Lodge; father of Christina (Matthew) Brown of Arizona and John (Michelle) Mesmer of Grand Island, NY; brother of Richard Mesmer of Grand Island, NY, Paul (Lisa) Mesmer of Oklahoma and the late Michael Mesmer; grandfather of Haylie Mesmer; also survived by several nieces, nephews and many friends. Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Saturday May 11, 2013 at 11 AM in St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 1453 Staley Rd., Grand Island, NY 14072. Donations to Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm St., Buffalo, NY 14263. Please visit www.rutland-corwin.com to send the family a condolence.
Janet (Brunton) Milkey - Of Grand Island died on April 30, 2013. A life-long resident of the Buffalo area, she was born on December 21, 1921. She graduated from Kenmore High School and Toby Coburn Junior College. Janet enjoyed traveling, boating, skiing and golfing. She was a former member of the Sandy Beach Yacht Club, The Buffalo Launch Club, The Century Club, Culture Club of Kenmore and The Park Club of Buffalo. She was a parishioner of Kenmore Methodist Church. She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Gustave P. Milkey, MD., her sister, Dorothy Bone and her brother Robert Brunton. Surviving are her daughter Susan (Michael) Cronin of Manlius, NY and her son Edward of Grand Island. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, Sara (Mark) Kowalczyk of Charlestown, MA; Douglas (Abbey) Cronin of Syracuse; Edward Milkey, Jr. of Chicago; and Alexa Milkey of Zionsville, IN. She has four great-grandchildren, Brendan and Julia Kowalczyk, Gustave and William Cronin. Friends are invited to a memorial service to help the family celebrate her life on Friday, May 10, at 1 PM at Elmlawn Cemetery, Sunrise Mausoleum Court, 3939 Delaware Rd. Tonawanda. Memorials may be made to Kenmore Mercy Hospital, 2950 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217.
Hazel Ann Murphy - On a visit to see the cherry blossoms, in Arlington, VA, on Saturday, April 6, 2013, beloved wife of Patrick Murphy; loving mother of Joseph Henry Cushner and Sandra Lyn Cushner; loving sister of William Henry and Louis (Suzette) Henry; aunt to Kimberly and Kristen Henry and friend to a treasured little girl, Clara Rickus. A third generation Islander, Hazel was a retired Lead Assembler at Kistler Instrument Corp., where she took great pride in her work and cared deeply for her co-workers, whose continued support after she left, meant so much to her. Although cancer came back twice, her hair came back more beautiful than ever and didn't stop her from her favorite hobbies of gardening and garage sales. Friends may call Friday, May 10, 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial Services will be held at Elmlawn Cemetery, Tonawanda, Chapel of the Elms, Saturday, May 11 at 9 AM. In lieu of flowers, please plant a flower in her memory. Memorial contributions may be made to Relay For Life of Grand Island or to the Erie County SPCA.
Ronald E. Easton - May 1, 2013, of Grand Island, NY, beloved husband of Miriam (Wilson); loving father of Kelly and Melissa Easton; brother of David, Craig (Shirley) and Bradley Easton; survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where Funeral Services will be held Saturday at 10:30 AM. Friends invited. Please consider a gift to the SPCA.
Alfred L. Perry - April 27, 2013, of Grand Island, born December 4, 1933, in Truro, Nova Scotia; devoted husband of 59 years to Thelma M. Perry; father of the late Raymond Perry and Brenda Dahlberg Gollwitzer; grandfather of Christopher (Stacey), Adam and Ingrid Dahlberg; great-grandfather of Cayden and Asia; brother of the late Thomas Perry and Marie Armstrong; uncle of Linda O'Rourke and Katherine DeBlois; son of the late Lawrence and Corinne Perry. Friends may call Wednesday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where funeral services will be held Thursday at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island or Hospice Buffalo.
Andrew J. "Andy" Watkinson - Of Grand Island, NY, on April 24, 2013, at age 75, beloved husband of Sharon O. (Onevelo) Watkinson; brother of Maureen (Timothy) Lyons and Pauline (late Dominic) Cerino; son of the late Harold and Vera (Cullen) Watkinson; brother-in-law of Angelo (Mary) Onevelo; cousin of Rosanne (Stephen) Zafuto; special friend of James Poythress; also survived by an uncle in Ireland, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Visitation Monday 3 - 8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:00 AM in Alumni Chapel at Niagara University, Lewiston, NY. Everyone please assemble at church. Entombment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Niagara University Theatre, Niagara University, NY 14109. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for guest register.
Robert E. Waterson Jr. - April 24, 2013, of Grand Island; husband of 57 years of Sally (Crage) Waterson; father of Jeffrey (Sharon), Michael (Christine), Diane, Brett (Melanie) and Robert E. Waterson III; also survived by nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; brother of Helen Oyer and Clayton (Maria) Waterson. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Monday (April 29) at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society
Polly (Swallow) Richmond - April 23, 2013, formerly of Grand Island. Sister of the late Nancy (late Bud) Cole; aunt of Cindy (Bruce) Ensminger and the late Michael (survived by wife Lynn) Cole; great aunt of Katy Domagala (Jay), Jeremy and Aaron Cole; greatgreat aunt of Kayla and Kiley. Funeral service were private. She will be loved and missed.
Phyllis M. (Wilson) Hiam - Of Grand Island, NY, April 22, 2013, wife of Richard Hiam, Sr.; dearest mother of Richard (Colleen) Hiam, Jr., Daniel (Michelle) Hiam, Diana (Joseph) Alessi and Cynthia (Kenneth) Kalinowski; sister of Salina Riggs and the late John Wilson; survived by many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will be held at the Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island at 3:00 PM on Saturday, May 4, 2013. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society .
Ann M. (nee Martineck) Smilinich - April 24, 2013, of Colden, NY, formerly of Grand Island, peacefully at home after a long illness, wife of 72 years of Charles Smilinich; mother of Judy (Ronald) Blain, Michael (Nancy) Smilinich, Susan Lehsten and Debra (Dan) Burandt; also survived by 13 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Friday only at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME, INC., 37 Adam St. at Seymour, Tonawanda, where prayers will be said at 8:30 PM Friday, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12 noon Saturday at St. Francis Chapel, 71 Adam St., Tonawanda. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to Crossroads Christian Church in East Aurora are preferred. Mrs. Smilinich assisted her husband in operating Charles Smilinich Waterproofing before retiring. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com.
Karen Maria (nee Siemieniuk) Mankiewicz - April 23, 2013, of Grand Island; beloved wife of Norbert Joseph Mankiewicz; dearest daughter of Eugene L. and Alice (Sietielski) Siemieniuk; loving sister of Susan Marie Siemieniuk; Godchild of Patricia (Frank) Derkovitz and Eugene Wolanski; also survived by three sisters-in-law; cousins; nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church.
William Charles "Bill" Mason - Age 93 of Delray Beach, passed away on March 25, 2013 while in the care of Vitas Hospice of Boynton Beach. He is survived by his wife Ellen at home and daughter Marcia (Don) Harris, two granddaughters Michele Arroyo and Carol Harris, and four great-grandchildren, all of Buffalo, NY. Bill was formerly of Grand Island, NY and has resided in Delray Beach since 1981 after retiring from E.I. DuPont in Niagara Falls, NY. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Elks Lodge. Visitation will be held Thursday March 28 beginning at 10:00 AM at the funeral home chapel. Services will follow at 10:30 AM. Entombment immediately following the service. Arrangements by Palm Beach Memorial Park Funeral Home, 3691 Seacrest Blvd, Lantana, FL. 561-586-1237. Online condolences at www.palmbeachmemorial.com.
Barbara Ziembiec - April 18, 2013, of Grand Island, NY, wife of James Ziembiec; mother of Joshua (Charlotte) Ziembiec and Adam (Sarah) Ziembiec; grandmother of Sadie Ziembiec; also survived by many extended family and friends and her loving dog Molson. Visitation on Sunday April 21, 2013 from 3 7 PM at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, Niagara Falls, NY where funeral services will follow at 7 PM with Bob Fink officiating. In remembrance of Barbara, donations greatly appreciated to Hospice of Buffalo Foundation, 225 Como Park Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14227 or to Niagara Frontier Hospice Foundation, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online guest register.
Gertrude (nee Schillke) Reimann - 103, of Grand Island died December 8, 2012. She was born in Canada in 1909 to Anna and Adolph Schillke. The family settled in the U.S. where they became naturalized citizens. Gertrude learned the English language in the Buffalo City Schools and graduated from Hutchinson Central High School. In 1929 she graduated from Buffalo State Teachers College with a degree in education. She taught in the Buffalo City Schools and retired in 1968 from the Grand Island School System.
Gertrude was a long time resident of Grand Island where she and her beloved Howard raised their family. She was a founding member of St. Timothy Lutheran Church and was a past president of the Order of Amaranths.
Gertrude enjoyed an active life on the river, spending her time swimming, boating and just contemplating the beauty of the Niagara. She also was an avid bicyclist and reader. She loved hosting square dances at her home. Gertrude is survived by her children: Trudy (James) O'Connor, Eric (Elizabeth) Reimann, Claire (Stephen) Royce, and Timothy (Margaret Aliene) Reimann. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held April 27th, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Grand Island.
Adelaide E. (Litzenberger) Volk - April 17, 2013, formerly of Grand Island, wife of the late Aloysius J. Volk; mother of Thomas (Carol) Volk of Niagara Falls (NFPD) and Lorraine (Frank) Mocniak of Webster, NY; stepmother of Margaret (Robert) McMillen; grandmother of Eric (Janet) Volk, Jenelle and Valerie Mocniak, Todd (Jamie) and Troy (Maria) Lee; great-grandmother of Quinn, Brittanee and Jakob; predeceased by eleven brothers and sisters. Friends may call Monday 12 - 2 PM followed by Memorial Services Monday at 2 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice .
Marie J. (Lesswing) Dowd - April 16, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of 65 years of Joseph G. Dowd; mother of Michael (Eileen) Dowd, Jane (Dana J.) Boyle and the late Timothy Dowd; grandmother of Kristyn (Nick) Bull, Justin Dowd, Lindsey and Steven Boyle; great-grandmother of Ryan Bull; sister of Edward (Eleanor) Lesswing; daughter of the late Arthur and Esther Lesswing. Funeral will be services private. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Mary "Betty" (Smith) Harnden - Died March 16, 2013. Beloved wife of Richard; loving mother of Ian (Vicki), Evan "Bear" (Lisa); beloved grandmother of Ryan, Eric, Emily, Mallory, Caitlyn, Emma. Memorial service will be held at 11 AM, April 19th at Trinity Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorials can be made to Jacobs neurological Institute or Tonawanda SPCA.
Sam R. Monaco - April 14, 2013, age 91, beloved husband of 62 years of Angeline S. (nee Giglia) Monaco; loving father of Donna M. (William) Gillan, Salvatore (Ellen), Michael A. (Linda), Robert Monaco and the late Maryane and James (Donna) Monaco; cherished grandfather of 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. The family will be present on Tuesday from 4-8 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Drive (corner of Parker Blvd). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday from St. Stephens R.C. Church, 2100 Baseline Rd, Grand Island at 10 AM. Family and friends are asked to please assemble at the church. Please share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Ruth M. (Hodson) Stahl - April 13, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of 56 years of the late Robert M. Stahl; sister of the late Harry (late Peggy) Hodson; aunt of Curtis (Jane) Hodson, Mark Hodson, Cynthia Urness and Tracey (Tim) McCarthy; also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. Friends may call Tuesday 3-7 PM followed by Funeral Services at 7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the SPCA or a charity of your choice.
Charles I. Livingston - Born April 28, 1926, entered into rest April 9, 2013. He is survived by his wife Annette (Sabella) Livingston, his daughter Cynthia (Nicholas) Petito, granddaughters Colleen, Victoria, Theresa and Christina, and a great-grandson, Scott. He was brother of Joan Bidell Fred, Ronald Livingston and Jerry Livingston. He was predeceased by his son Charles A. Livingston and brother, Martin Livingston, Jr. Charles was proud of the time he spent serving his country in the United States Navy during World War II. He served on a P.T. boat in the South Pacific and was Honorably Discharged in January 1946. He lived and worked in New York City for many years before he retired and returned to the Western New York area. His family respectfully requests that any memorial tributes be in the form of donations to woundedwarriorproject.org. Charles lived on Grand Island from 1938 until 1948. Memorial Service will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island, NY at 1:00 PM Saturday, April 20, 2013.
Suzanne M. (McClure) Allsop - Of Rock Hill, SC, joined her mother Iva in heaven on April 10, 2013, dearly missed by her daughters Tina (Jeff) Hassler, Bethany and Trisha Allsop and their father Joe Allsop; her father William McClure; her brothers Jim (Kim), Bill (Pat) and Mike (Jackie) McClure; nieces, nephews and very special friends. Friends may call Friday 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial services will he held Saturday at 10:30 AM at St. Timothy Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 4102 N. Ben Jordan St., Victoria, TX 77901.
Jerome "Jerry" Perry - Retired Niagara Falls School Administrator. April 7, 2013 at age 85. Son of the late Stephen and Clara Perry; beloved husband of Marie G. (nee Longo) Perry; dear father of Stephen M. Perry, Michele M. Perry, and Ann M. Perry (Gerald) Smith; brother of Norman H. (Gizella) Perry, Benedict "Ben" (late Adele) Perry, and the late Raymond (late Frances) Perry, Edward (late Florence) Perry, and Theresa (Richard) Sliwinski; brother-in-law of Charles T. (Rosalie) Longo; special cousin of Mary (Fiacco) (late Alan) Sattelberg, Fran (Fiacco) Louis DeLuca, Angelo (BaoHong) Fiacco, Nancy (Fiacco) Keith Powell, and Charles (Rossana) Fiacco; also survived by nieces, nephew, and cousins. No prior visitation. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated on Saturday at 10:00 am at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd. Grand Island, NY concluding with military honors. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. If desired, memorials may be made to Catholic Charities or Upstate New York Transplant Services. Private entombment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY RD. NIAGARA FALLS, NY. Online register at www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.
Catherine E. (nee Kurelia) Martineck - Of Tonawanda TWP., in Schererville, IN, April 5, 2013, wife of the late Michael J. Martineck; dear mother of Carol (late Paul) Herrmann, Milan (Patricia) Martineck and Michelle (Carlos) Salinas; also survived by six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; sister of the late Josephine (late Thomas) Moshenko and the late Louie (Anne) Kurelia and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call at D. LAWRENCE GINNANE FUNERAL HOME, 3215 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, Tuesday 2-4 and 6-8 PM where funeral will be held Wednesday at 8:45. Mass of Christian Burial from St. Andrew's R.C. Church at 9:15 AM. Entombment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. www.ginnanefuneralhome.com.
Marilyn L. (nee Abbotoy) Henderson - April 5, 2013, formerly of Buffalo, wife of the late Robert H. Henderson; mother of Scott (Cathy) and Alan (Margaret) Henderson; grandmother of Robert, William, Steven, Alexandria, Rebecca and Megan Henderson; sister of Marge McClean, Sandy (Wally) Witmer, Karen Hollandsworth and the late Kathy (survived by husband Joe)Yadloczky; daughter of the late Arthur and Jeanette Abbotoy. Friends may call Monday 2-4 and 6-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday at 10:30 AM at Faith United Presbyterian Church, 3150 Elmwood Ave., Tonawanda.
Jamie Milne - The Family of Jamie Milne would like to extend an invitation to family and friends to join us in 'The Celebration of the Life of Jamie Milne". The service will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church at 2100 Whitehaven Road on Grand Island on April 13, 2013 at 10 A.M. In lieu of flowers donation are gratefully accepted for a Scholarship that will be presented to a student of Grand Island High School in Jamie's memory.
Glenn G. Bailey - Of Grand Island, entered into rest April 4, 2013. Devoted father of Melissa (Stephen) Caccamise, Glenn (Kristin) Bailey and Lisa (James) Bona; cherished grandfather of Joseph; dear companion of Mary Rose Landon; also survived by relatives and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Wednesday from 4-8 PM where the funeral service will be held on Thursday morning at 11 o'clock. Online condolences may be made shared at www.lombardofuenralhome.com.
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Norma Eileen (Sherk) Ryan - March 15, 2013, surrounded by her loving family after a brief illness, beloved wife of the late Timothy J. Ryan DDS; devoted mother of Eric T. Ryan and Laura J. Blades (nee Ryan); cherished grandmother of Dylan T. Ryan; dearest daughter of the late Richard E. Sherk; survived by mother Helen E. (nee Young) Sherk; sister of David A. Sherk, Robert D. (Diane) Sherk and Richard F. (Edie) Sherk; also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY for a Memorial Service on April 13 at 11 AM.
William A. Petillon - February 8, 2013, devoted father of Sally (John) Maccini, Charles W. (Jacqueline), Edward Petillon and Kristin (Seth) Debowy; grandfather of Jessica, Joseph, Michael and Kimberly Maccini; son of the late Edward and Margaret Petillon; brother of Peggy Wald; uncle of Michelle (Matthew) Bertapelle. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 13 at 11 AM at the Chapel of the Elms at Elmlawn Cemetery. William was a dedicated teacher in the Sweet Home School District for 34 years. He was a longtime employee of Auld's Garden Shop, his family's business. William was also a member of the Lions Club and an avid bowler. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Humane Society of the United States or a charity of your choice . Arrangements by C. Mertz & Son Funeral Home, Inc. Share condolences at mertzfh.com.
Rodger J. Moss - passed away in Cape Coral April 2, 2013. He was born in Buffalo N.Y January 24, 1937 and moved to Cape Coral in 1982. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years Joan, and three loving children, Steven Moss (Christina Thomas) of Jacksonville Fl., Linda (David) Nagelhout of Hillsborough, N.C., Thomas Moss of Cape Coral, and nine grandchildren; Daniel Nagelhout, Laura (Jeremy) Warren, Stacie Moss, Kristi Nagelhout, Christopher (Stephanie) Harmon, Jeffrey Moss, Michael Boyle, Kimberlee Moss, & Ryan Moss. He is also survived by his beloved sister Carrol (Edward) McMahon and many nieces & nephews. He was a resident of Grand Island from 1964 – 1982. He suffered a stroke in June of 2012 and was in failing health since. While living on the Island he was an active member of the Rod & Gun Club, Snowmobile Club and involved in Hydroplane boat racing. He will be missed but not forgotten. Arrangements are private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends consider taking a moment to privately reflect upon their favorite memories of Rodger. Visit www.fullermetz.com to leave your condolences.
Charles A. Thore - April 2, 2013. Age 49 of Grand Island, formerly of Tonawanda after a long illness. Husband of Kristen (nee Koch) Thore; father of James (Christina Vitale) Thore and Sgt. Christopher (Sarah) Thore, U.S. Army; step father of Sarah Brand; son of Kathleen (nee Blood) and the late Arthur Thore; brother of Brian (Jackie) and Richard (Jodi) Thore; also survived by many nieces, nephews and his former wife Diane (nee Metzinger) Thore. The family will receive friends from 2-4 PM on Saturday only at the HAMP FUNERAL HOME, INC., 37 Adam St. at Seymour, Tonawanda where a Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held at 4 PM Saturday. Friends invited. If desired, memorials to the A.L.S. Association or to Hospice Buffalo are preferred. Mr. Thore was a Navy veteran. Complete obituary, condolences and directions at www.hampfuneral.com.
Alan E. Emke - Passed away suddenly, March 9, 2013, husband of the late Sharon M. Emke; dear friend of Joan Schutt; beloved father of Alan (Yvonne) Emke, Daniel (Missy) Emke, David (Tiffany) Emke, and many loved grandchildren; dear brother of the late Donna (Fred) Budrick, the late Sandra (Ronald) Hoffman, Dan (Marie) Emke, the late Kate Davis, Gerald Emke and Leahmarie Norman; brother-in-law of Sherrill Davis. A Celebration of Life to be held at the AMVETS Post #13, on 25 Review Place in Buffalo, May 5th at 11:00 AM.
Kevin A. Doring - March 28, 2013, age 52, formerly of Grand Island, beloved son of Floyd and Chie Doring; nephew of Shirley Runions; also survived by aunts and cousins. Friends may call Saturday 2-6 PM and Monday 6-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 10 AM at St. Martin In The Fields Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grand Island Relay For Life (www.RelayForLife.org/GrandIslandNY). Kevin attended Grand Island Schools, Niagara University and was a graduate of University at Buffalo.
David E. Hobba, Sr. - After a courageous battle with cancer, February 27, 2013. Beloved husband of Tonza (nee Notartomas); dear father of David, Courtney and Robert; son of the late Robert and Janet; son-in-law of Joseph and Mary Notartomas; brother of Robert (Lisa) Hobba, Mary (Peter) Frey and Janice (Tim) Glose; brother-in-law of Joseph, Mark, Carmen Notartomas, Nicole (Spencer) Sojka, Erin (Gary) Steiger and Michele (Kevin) Kliber; also survived by nieces and nephews. David was employed by Weydman Electric. Online condolences at www.PACERFUNERALHOME.com
Jennie Palmer - 94, of Cazenovia, formerly of Grand Island, died Sunday, March 24th at Crouse Community Center in Morrisville. Jennie retired from the Niagara Falls School District after 20 years of teaching. She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Grand Island. Surviving are her children, Jennifer R. Wells, John D., James J. and Paul William Palmer; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the Tait Funeral Home, Inc., 2333 Fenner Road, Cazenovia, the Rev. Dr. Steven Thomas officiating. To extend a condolence to the family online, please visit taitfuneralhome.com.
Susan C. (Shaffer) Moody - March 23, 2013, age 52, beloved wife of Thomas P. Moody; devoted mother of Kyle P., Derek T., Christopher W. and Shannon L. Moody; dear daughter of William J. and Lorraine F. (nee Zacharias) Shaffer; caring sister of Richard Shaffer, Linda (Charles) Lewis, Karen (Edward) Mesanovic, Patricia (Gary) McIntosh, William (Kathleen) Shaffer and the late Daniel Shaffer; adored daughter-in-law of Leland (late Ellen Murphy) Moody; caring sister-in-law of Kevin P. (Donna) Moody; also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and great-nieces. The family will be present on Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the (Tonawanda Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2600 Sheridan Drive (corner of Parker Blvd.). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday from St. Stephen Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island at 10 AM. Family and friends are asked to please assemble at the church. Please share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Anna (Fabozzi) Gormady - Age 83, of Grand Island, NY, March 18, 2013, beloved wife of Patrick Gormady; dearest mother of nine sons; survived by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends. No prior visitation. Services will be private. Flowers gratefully declined. Arrangements by ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 824-6435.
Ann J. (nee Sciandra) Reinhold - March 17, 2013, of Grand Island at the age of 90, beloved wife of the late Richard J. Reinhold; devoted mother of Suzanne M. (Jerome) Reinhold-Shor, Richard L. Reinhold and John D. (Paula Joy) Reinhold; loving grandmother of Sandy Reinhold, Ian Sturdevant, Daniel Reinhold-Shor, Derek Reinhold, Matthew Reinhold, Matthew Shor, Elizabeth, Eleanor and Rebecca Reinhold; great-grandmother of Trey Shor; dear sister of Marie Gueth; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will be present on Friday from 2-4 and 6-9 PM at the (Delaware Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1132 Delaware Avenue (near West Ferry Street), Buffalo. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday from St. Stephen's RC Church, 2100 Baseline Road, Grand Island at 11:30 AM. Please assemble at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice-Buffalo, Inc., 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, NY 14227 or the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, 499 Franklin St., Buffalo, NY 14202. Share your online condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
Joseph M. Fusco Sr. - March 19, 2013, of Grand Island, beloved husband of Francesca Fusco, devoted father to Monica (Ram) Ramanathan; Joseph (Nancy) Fusco, Jr. Lisa Varvaro; Craig (Carolyn) Fusco and predeceased by Laura (Theodore) Kose. Loving grandfather of Nicholas and Lacy Pinyot, Brandon Hoskins, Maria (Zach) Rhone; Angela and Joseph M. Fusco, III; Benjamin Kose; Philip, Dominic, Marina, Sofia Varvaro; Craig, Jr. and Clark Fusco. Loving brother to Jeanette Merrill (Ed); Donald (Alice) Fusco; predeceased by brother Michael (Jennie) Fusco. Favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews and wonderful friend to many.
Joe was born in Buffalo and met the love of his life at age 12. The first time they met, he told her he was going to marry her. She did not accept the proposal for another 6 years! Joe and his wife, Fran, raised five children in Grand Island. Joe received his Bachelor of Science in Vocational-Technical Education and teaching certification from Buffalo State College. He was a master carpenter and homebuilder before he began a career with Erie I BOCES for 24 years. Joe was also a numismatist and was known as an expert in American coins in the Tri-State area for 46 years. He loved fishing, Fran’s food and traveling to Italy. His passion for his family was his hallmark. His greatest legacy are his wonderful grandchildren, who love the Lord and who also loved him. He will be greatly missed. The family will receive friends Friday, March 22nd from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the Kaiser Funeral Home. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 23rd at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Grand Island Relay for Life – Laura’s Team.
Daniel J. McNamee, Jr. - born September 22, 1942, entered into rest march 15, 2013. Son of the late Maxine and Daniel McNamee, Sr. Brother of Marcella Buell, Ronald R. (Patricia) McNamee, Robert F. (Denise) McNamee and Joseph McNamee. Loving companion of Doris Springman. Also survived by children Daniel McNamee III, Kristy Woods, Jenifer Kaye, Michael McNamee, and many grandchildren. Daniel was a Captain with the Civil Air Patrol, a member of the American Power Boat Association and the Grand Island Moose Lodge. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Lawrence Zelonis - age 85, of Grand Island, died peacefully at home on March 17, 2013 after a long illness. Beloved husband of 58 years of Louise (Kuhn) Zelonis. Much loved father of David Zelonis, Laureen (Douglas) Hess, and Lynn (David) Mikulski. Loving grandfather of Cody, Tucker, and Benjamin Hess, Quinn, Travis, and Jack Mikulski. Larry was a veteran of WWII and a member of American Legion Post 1346 on Grand Island. He loved the outdoors, which included golfing, attending air shows, and vegetable gardening. Visitation will be at the Kaiser Funeral Home on Saturday April 6th at 11:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 12 noon. Flowers gratefully declined. Donations can be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Carol Ann Aldrich - "In the arms of an angel", March 14, 2013, cherished mother of David Scott Leavell, Darin Shawn Leavell and Patti Ann DiBenedetto; beloved daughter of the late Smith Edward Aldrich and Alida Dora VanSon-Aldrich; loving sister of Alida "Rusty" (William) Baggiano and Ada-Beth Aldrich; also survived by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and her cherished and devoted cat, Brianna. The family will be present to receive friends Wednesday 5-8 PM at BEACH-TUYN FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5541 Main St. (at Cayuga Rd.) where a service will follow at 8 PM. Memorials may be made to Imperial Court of Buffalo, www.theimperialcourtofbuffalo.com an AIDS Education/Fundraising Organization. Ms. Aldrich was a member of the Tonawanda Police Mobile Eye Unit. Online condolences at www.beachtuynfh.com.
Jane (nee Michniak) Kalinowski - March 14, 2013, of Grand Island, formerly of Buffalo; wife of the late Eugene M. Kalinowski; mother of Kenneth (Cindy) Kalinowski of Grand Island, Laurie (Ellis) Werbow of Amherst and the late Kevin M. Kalinowski; also survived by many grandchildren, nieces and nephews; predeceased by four sisters and one brother. Friends may call Sunday 5-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials my be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Eileen K. O'Brien - March 11, 2013, of Grand Island, dear sister of Rev. David E. O'Brien O.M.I. and the late Mary Elizabeth O'Brien and Laura (the late James) Conboy; beloved aunt of Anne Byrne, James (Rebecca) Conboy, Eileen (Jeffrey) Stone and David (Karen) Conboy; cherished great-aunt and great great-aunt, daughter of the late David and Laura O'Brien, friends may call Friday 4-7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church (Old Church). In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Friends of the Brazilian Oblates, c/o Pat Carr 184 Wendover Ave., Tonawanda, NY 14223. Eileen was a retired long time Manager with New York Telephone.
George A.Christensen - March 10, 2013 of Grand Island, husband of 60 years of Marianne (Smolk) Christensen; father of Julie (Michael) Ganske of Clymer, NY, Kurt (Diana) of Lorton, VA and Kris (Michelle) Christensen of Grand Island; grandfather of Melissa Christensen, Mary Katherin Ganske, Lindsay, Michael and Brooke Christensen; son of the late Chris and Winifred Christensen; brother-in-law of Judith Smolk. Friends may call Friday 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Memorial services will be held Saturday at 10:30 AM at St Martin-In-The-Fields Church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to the Grand Island Fire Co. or Hospice Buffalo, Mr. Christensen was a member of the Grand Island and Clymer Volunteer Fire Departments for 64 years.
Larry E. Meister - 76, of Grand Island, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 5, 2013 in Kenmore Mercy Hospital. Born on September 13, 1936 in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Edward and Orpha (Henderson) Meister. Mr. Meister, for the early part of his life, lived in Kenmore, NY, where he attended schools and graduated from Kenmore High School. Later, Larry graduated from the University at Buffalo with a degree in Electrical Engineering. On August 20, 1966, he married the former Barbara A. Redline. She predeceased him on February 7, 2000. Following their marriage, Larry and Barbara moved to Grand Island, where he resided until his passing. Upon graduating from the University at Buffalo, Mr. Meister began his career at Bell Aerospace, working as an Electrical Engineer, until his retirement in the late 1990’s. Larry was a longtime member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Grand Island, NY. Mr. Meister is survived by one daughter, Julie Estenoz of Grand Island, NY and was predeceased by an infant daughter, Amy Elizabeth Meister. Larry is also survived by two grandsons, Ian and Simon Estenoz; four nieces and his beloved dog, Sydney.
The family will be present to receive friends on Friday, March 8th from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 NOON in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (297-9007) where a funeral service will immediate follow at 12:00 NOON with Rev. Larry Baird officiating. Interment will follow in Niagara Falls Memorial Park Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. 499 Franklin Street Buffalo, NY 14202.
Ruth Rose (Young) Arida - Of Grand Island, Saturday March 2, 2013 at Sterling House under the care of Niagara Hospice, beloved wife of 59 years of the late Edward P. Arida; loving mother of Thomas (LeeAnn), Raymond (Peggy), Edward (Roseann), John (Terry), Robert (Lois), Paul (Lisa) and the late David (survived by wife Judith) Arida; also survived by 19 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; sister of William (Renee), Arthur (Marion) and the late Raymond and Frank Young. Friends may call Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Flowers declined. Memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice. A special thank you to Niagara Hospice and the staff and residents of Sterling House for their care and concern.
Jacquelyn M. (Sullivan) Mau - March 1, 2013. Beloved wife of Kenneth; dear mother of Steven (Kara) Kane, Jennifer (Edward) Bolton; step mother of Michael (Renae) Popovlch, Jessica and Cory Mau; grandmother of Avery and Lexi; daughter of George and Jacquelyn Sullivan; daughter-in-law of Jeanette Mau; sister of Michael (Marion), Brian (Angela), Paul (Eileen) and Jeff (Nicole) Sullivan; sister-in-law of Patricia (Thomas) Grace, Michael (Kathleen) Mau and David (Cindy) Mau. Visitation Thursday, March 7, 1-4 and 6-9 PM at the PACER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2275 George Urban Blvd. (two blocks east of Dick Rd.). Mass of Christian Burial at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island Friday at 10 AM. Please assemble at church. Jacquelyn was a graduate of Sister's of Charity Hospital School of Nursing, Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer and a Registered Vascular Technologist. Flowers gratefully declined. Online condolences at www.PACERFUNERALHOME.com
Kathleen R. (Meosky) Head - Of Grand Island, entered into rest February 27, 2013. Mother of Matthew (Caroline) Head, David (Andrea) Head, Maribeth Head, Sally (Matt) Hinman, Thomas and Susan Head; grandmother of Eleanor; daughter of Paul and Deloris (nee Smargie) Meosky; sister of Patrice (Bill) Freeman and Paul (Helen) Meosky; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, (Northtowns Chapel), 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Sunday from 2-5 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Stephen's Church, 2100 Baseline Rd., Grand Island on Monday morning at 10 o'clock. (Please assemble at church). Entombment St. Stephen's Cemetery. Kathleen was a graduate of Grand Island High School and Canisius College. She loved daily Mass, reading from her prayer book and spending time with her family and children. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family would be appreciated.
Mary C. Scruggs - February 28, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of the late Charlie M. Scuggs; mother of David (Patricia) Scruggs, Richard (Linda) Scruggs and Kathleen (Richard) Full; grandmother of Denise (Gene) Kelsey, Richard (Petrica) Full, Jeffrey (Tammy), Nathan and Robert Scruggs and Thomas (Sandy) Cecere; also survived by 12 grandchildren; sister of Jacqueline Lockman and the late Sam and Angelo Callea; dear companion of the late William Page. Friends may call Sunday 2-7 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Monday at 10 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org). Mrs. Scruggs was a WW II U.S. Navy Wave Veteran.
Janet E. (Snyder) Hobba - Age 80, of Grand Island, went to be with her Lord and Savior in eternal rest on Tuesday February 26, 2013 following a long illness, Janet was born one of eleven children on January 8, 1933 in Osceola Mills, PA of Ellen Catherine (Shoaf) Snyder and Jeffrey David Snyder, Janet was married to the late Robert E. Hobba, moving first to the Town of Niagara and then Grand Island where she resided for 45 years, She is survived by her children the late David E. (Tonza), Mary Ellen (Peter) Frey, Bob (Lisa) and Janice (Tim) Glose; nine grandchildren whom she loved and enjoyed, She is also survived by siblings Blanche Martin of Florida and Bob (Mary) Snyder of Florida and many nieces and nephews including local nieces Kay (Alan) Beyea and Judy (Bill) Johnston, Janet enjoyed spending her summers at Odosagih Bible Conference, She was active in many volunteer organizations ushering with The BPO, The Kavinoky Theater, The Musicalfare Theater, Shea's Performing Arts Center and particularly Artpark & Co. Family will be present at the PACER FUNERAL HOME, 2275 George Urban Blvd, Depew 2-4 and 7-9 PM on Friday, March 1, 2013, A celebration of Janet's and her son David's life will be held on Saturday, March 2 at 11 AM at The Chapel at CrossPoint, 500 Cross Point Parkway, Getzville, with Rev. Abram Dueck officiating. Private family burial with interment at Acacia Park. Flowers declined in lieu of donations to Odosagih Bible Conference, 3204 Hazelmere Avenue, Machias, NY 14101. Arrangements by KAISER FUNERAL HOME.
Leah E. (Boyd) Gollwitzer - February 25, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of the late Charles R. Gollwitzer; beloved mother of C. Peter Gollwitzer, Diane (Jerry) Doane, Mark (late Brenda) Gollwitzer and Sally (David) Goris; cherished grandmother of Melissa (Christopher) Pitek, Stephanie Goris, Kathryn Doane and Robert (Danny) Goris-Kolb; devoted sister of Betty (late Frank) Marinell and the late Phyllis (late Peter) Bermel; also survived by many nieces, nephews and close friends.Friends may call Friday, 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials to McAuley Residence or Trinity United Methodist Church where funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 AM.
Carl G. Deuble Sr. - February 24, 2013 of Grand Island, NY. Beloved husband of the late Lois; loving father of Carl, Mark (Julie), David (Marlene), Susan Altizer and Keith Deuble; survived by seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren;. Friends may call Thursday 4-7 at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC., FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave. where funeral services will be held at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to a charity of your choice.
Lois E. (Smith) Morgan - Age 90, of Grand Island, February 21, 2013, wife of the late Richard F. Morgan; mother of Kathleen (the late Donald) Rider, Richard (Carol) and Hank Morgan; sister of Grace Vonstein and the late June and Kathryn; also surviving are five grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday from 4-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, where Funeral Services will be held Tuesday at 10 AM.
Ernest R. Underwood - Age 56, February 22, 2013, husband of the late Jean M. Underwood; significant other of Susan Keating; father of Roger Underwood and Beth Glessner; grandfather of Peyton; also surviving are several stepchildren and grandchildren. Friends may call Monday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM and Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where Funeral Services will follow at 8 PM. Interment will be in Assumption Cemetery. Memorials may be made to help defray the funeral costs.
Judith A. Bartolotta - 63, of Grand Island, February 20, 2013. Wife of James F. Bartolotta, Jr.; mother of James F. (Tina) Bartolotta, III, Jeanine (Bill) Fletcher, Judie Pelletier, Jason and Jerrid (Jennie) Bartolotta; sister of the late Calvin (Debbie) Jenkins, Richard (Kelly) Watkins, Daniel (Paul) Chopra, Sandra Watkins, and Terri Cicatello; grandmother of Samantha, Amber, Brooke, Cole, Logan, Callee, Alexis, William Jr., Connor, and Isabella; also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Saturday from 12-4 P.M. at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, INC. 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, where funeral services will follow.
Beverly A. (Hollowell) Echelberger - Suddenly February 14, 2013, of Grand Island. Wife of the late Frank L. Echelberger; mother of Ann M. (Jerry) Adam and the late Diane L. Echelberger; grandmother of Andrew and Sarah Adam; also survived by five brothers and sisters. Friends may call Monday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 11 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Jan Madejski - Jan February 12, 2013, of Grand Island, husband of 53 years of Rose Mary (Crimaldi) Madejski; father of Dr. Thomas (Sandra) Madejski, Linda (Pantelis) Panteli and Mary Ann (George) Spanos; grandfather of Panayiotis (Teo) Spanos, Kypros and Jan Panteli, Thomas Spanos, Greg, James, Giovanni, Jacqueline and Joseph Madejski and Chryssie Rose Panteli; brother of Gregory (Rosalie) and Mary Madejski and Julie (Paul) Bukowski; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 6-9 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Boy Scouts of America Iroquois Trail Council, 45 Liberty St., Batavia, NY or St. Stephen's Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM.
Dorothy E. (Roach) Carey - February 8, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of the late Leo W. Carey; mother of Cheryl (Larry) Mulvey, Bridget (Ken) O'Keefe, Lynn (Edwin) Ryan and Lori Carey; also survived by 12 grandchildren and a great-grandson; sister of the late Lillian Weigand and Mary DiMarca, Friends may call Friday 6-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Stephen's Church (old church).
Colleen Riordan - of Lake Placid, Florida, formerly of Grand Island. Passed away Saturday, December 15, 2012 with her faithful companion Danny Boy in her lap and daughter Joyce at her side. Colleen retired from Arcata Graphics in 1986. She and husband Leonard, moved to Lake Placid, Florida for the second chapter of their great life together. Colleen was a lifetime member of the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial V.F.W. Post 9249 Women’s Auxiliary and a member of the Ladies of the Moose, Lake Placid, Florida. Colleen was also a very enthusiastic member of The Red Hats. Colleen is survived by children, Colleen (Leon) Petrus, Gail (Richard) Byron, Joyce Clark, Leonard Riordan, Loretta (Kari) Riordan, Grandchildren, Melvin Schilling, Paul (Cassandra) Siemucha, Jason (Stacey) Petrus, Wendy (Chris) Mack, Jessica Petrus, and Christopher Winters. Colleen is also survived buy many great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Colleen is predeceased by her husband of 59 years, Leonard Riordan. Colleen was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. The love of her family was always the most important part of her life. Memorial Service to be held summer 2013.
Gilbert M. "Gil" Loeb - February 5, 2013, age 76, beloved husband of Kathleen "Katie" P. (nee Paul) Loeb; devoted father of Tammy (late Richard) Bartlett and Kimberlee Loeb-Reed; loving grandfather of four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; dearest brother of Dorothy (Donald) Harrison, Karen Bitonte and the late Betty Albach; also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. The family will be present on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the GRECO FUNERAL HOME, 2909 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore, where a Funeral Service will immediately follow at 8:00 PM. Friends invited. Interment to take place privately at the convenience of the family in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. If so desired, memorials may be made in Gil's name to the Town of Tonawanda Paramedics. Please share your online condolences at www.GRECOFUNERAL.com.
Charles Edwin (Ed) Satterlee - Dec. 17, 1921 - Jan. 31, 2013. Ed Satterlee, resident of North Port, Florida, and formerly of Grand Island, New York, passed away after a brief illness. Ed was born and raised in Elmira, New York. He joined the Air Force in World War II and worked in photographic darkrooms in and around the South Pacific. After the war, he married Irene Wood and used the GI Bill to enroll at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute graduating with a degree in aeronautical engineering. He took a job in Texas with Convair and after several years decided to move closer to home. Ed then worked at Bell Aerospace in Niagara Falls for the next 30 years. While there, he worked as an engineer on many experimental planes and served on the engineering team that developed the Bell Rocket Belt (remember James Bond in the movie 'Thunderball'?) He was an avid sailor and photographer and was a founding member of The Great Lawn Mower Race on Grand Island. After retirement he and Irene traveled the country in their motor home, seeing the sights and visiting family. Ed was predeceased by his wife, Irene, son Charles and stepson Robert Stone. He is survived by his loving wife Sibyl, daughters Rita (James) Rosensteele of Carmel, IN and Jill Satterlee of Johns Creek, GA and sons Richard (Maura) Satterlee of Cincinnati, OH, and Thomas Satterlee of Grand Island, NY and stepdaughters Sibyl (Warren) Hoover, Linda (Ted) Petrone, Betty Lee and Valerie Richter and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Donations can be made to: Hospice Buffalo, 225 Como Park Blvd.,Buffalo, NY 14227-1480.
Richard (Dick) Robinson - 71, of Summerfield, FL, formerly of Grand Island, died February 2, 2013 in Gainesville VA Hospital after a short illness. Husband of Linda, beloved father of Brian (Shannon) Robinson and Paul Robinson of Florida. Proud grandfather of baby Jonah, dear brother of Bob (late Judy) Robinson of Florida and Debbi Robinson of Grand Island. Dick was the loving son of the late Charlie and Olive Robinson.
Dick was a graduate of Tonawanda High School and the University of Wyoming. He served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam in 1967. He was a former Grand Island M & T Bank manager, member of the Rotary Club, and recipient of the Chamber Grand Island Citizen of the Year Award for Business. After moving to Florida, he managed a Bank of Barnett and in later years operated a Bed & Breakfast in Palm Coast, FL.
Dick loved the Island and treasured the memories of racing sailboats at the Sandy Beach Yacht Club with his brother and father. He will be sadly missed by family and friends. Memorials may be made to Trinity Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY 14072.
Sherrie Lynn Mahon - 52, of Grand Island, NY, passed away on Saturday, February 2, 2013 in Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, NY. Born on October 11, 1960 in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of Viola (Bill) Vosburg and the late John E. Mahon. Sherrie was such a loving, generous, strong woman, who had an unconditional love for nature, animals and her family. In addition to her parents, she leaves behind her three beautiful children, Brandi, Sarah and David Mahon; a very special grandson, Jayden Mahon; brothers and sisters, Evelyn and James Clyde, Dorothy and Brian General, Kenny and Maggie Mahon and Sandra O'Dell; sister-in-law, Laurie Ferchen; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. In addition to her father, Sherrie was predeceased by one brother, John Mahon and one step-brother, Rick Vosburg. There will be no prior visitation. Donations , in memory of Sherrie Lynn Mahon, may be made to the Niagara County SPCA, 2100 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Arrangements were entrusted to the Otto Redanz Funeral Home, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls. To leave a personal message for the family, please visit www.ottoredanz.com and www.niagara-gazette.com/obituaries.
John R. Gaydica - Of Clarence, formerly of Grand Island, NY entered into rest February 2, 2013, beloved husband of Karen Wendy (nee Holden) Gaydica; devoted father of Lynn (Russell) Wuertzer, Diane (Joseph) Mahfoud and Michelle (David) Finster-Wolgast; cherished grandfather of five grandchildren; loving son of the late John and Julia Gaydica. No prior visitation. Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Paul's R.C. Church, corner of Delaware Ave. & Victoria Blvd., Kenmore, NY on Friday morning at 11:30 o'clock. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to Clarence Volunteer Fire Department or WNY Heroes. Arrangements by LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Northtowns Chapel). Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Robert W. Kane, Jr. - January 31, 2013 of Grand Island. Beloved husband of Bridget (Devine); dear father of Thomas (Maria), Kathleen, David and Michael (Dawn) Kane; loving grandfather of Gavin Kane; dear brother of Barbara (late John) Daly, Kathleen (Thomas) Phillips, Jacquelyn (Joseph) Phillips and the late Ruth (Lester) Hall, Mary, Jeanne (late Paul) Brady, Patricia (late Robert) Knopf and Angela (late John) Clifford; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Visitation at the KOLANO FUNERAL HOME, 396 Amherst St. (near Grant) Sunday 1-5 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Andrew's Church, 1525 Sheridan Dr. (corner Elmwood) Monday at 9:15 AM. Please assemble at church. Mr. Kane was a firefighter with the Buffalo Fire Dept. Engine #10 for 25 years and also worked at Bell Aerospace for 40 years and at Carrier Coach for 15 years. Donations to the Salvation Army are preferred. Entombment Forest Lawn Cemetery. Share online condolences at www.KOLANOFUNERALHOME.com
Charlotte Ann Lajos - August 9, 1939 - January 25, 2013 Of Longboat Key, Florida, formerly of Grand Island, New York. Died after a long battle with cancer. Daughter of Robert Dowling Scott and Anna Fidele Armstrong, she was born in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. She graduated from Wellesley Hospital School of Nursing in Toronto, Canada in 1961. While working at the Wellesley Hospital as an RN, Charlotte met and married Dr. Thomas Z. Lajos in 1964. They moved to Buffalo where they raised their family. While in Buffalo, Charlotte became a member of the Board of Trustees at the Calasanctius School (1981 - 1985) and the Buffalo Seminary (1989 - 1995). She organized many fundraisers for both schools, including the annual Calasanctius Piarist Ball. When affiliated with The Buffalo Seminary, Charlotte continued her activities by hosting the Buffalo Seminary Soiree auctions and serving on numerous Board of Trustee committees. Dearly beloved wife, mother, and sister, Charlotte is survived by her husband Thomas, two daughters, Cheryl and Laura, her son Paul and his wife Corinne, and her sister Catherine Scott. A Catholic funeral service and burial will be held on Longboat Key at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church at 10:30 AM on February 6th. Flowers may be sent directly to the church, located at 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Florida, 34228. Donations in loving memory of Charlotte Lajos to support lung cancer research may be made by mail to The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, Texas 77210-4486. A donation form is available online at https://www.mdanderson.org/gifts/view-content?DFID=S_000821.
James E. Walline - January 30, 2013, age 77. Beloved husband of Marjorie C. (nee Caisse) Walline; loving father of Martha M. (Thomas) Bouquin, Sr., Jennifer K. (Gregory) Chudyk, Megan J., James E., Jr. (Phyllis), Matthew J. (Cheryle) and Michael J. Walline; cherished grandfather of Thomas, Jr., Taylor, Greyson, Karenna, Aidan, Zachary, Lola and James III; caring brother of Doris (Rodman) Bailey; also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will be present on Sunday from 1-5 PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive (corner of Hopkins Road) where prayers will be offered on Monday at 9:45 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated from St. Gregory the Great Church at 10:30 AM. Friends invited. Please share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.
James Edward Walline Sr. of Williamsville, Sept. 26, 1935 – Jan. 30, 2013, principal of Grand Island Senior High School from 1976 to 1993, died Wednesday after a battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 77. Born in Fargo, N.D., he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology and education from Moorhead State Teachers College in North Dakota, then served for three years in the Army as a cryptanalyst during the Korean War, stationed at Fort Devens, Mass., and in Arlington, Va. He went on to get a master’s degree in zoology from North Dakota State University and advanced certificates in education from Brandeis University and Boston University. He began his career in education as a biology teacher at Warren Junior High School in Newton, Mass., and taught for several years at schools in Massachusetts. Before taking the position at Grand Island, Mr. Walline was principal of Pembroke High School from 1972 to 1976. From 1993 to 1996, he was principal of Cardinal O’Hara High School in the Town of Tonawanda. While on sabbatical from Grand Island, he worked with General Motors and the United Auto Workers to develop a “School to Work” program that connected teachers with local businesses to help train students in job skills. In retirement, he was an adjunct professor at Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. An athlete, baseball player and football enthusiast, he coached football and wrestling at North Dakota State and coached his sons’ baseball teams in the Christy Matthewson Little League. He was an officer in the Kenawan Figure Skating Club and joined his children in figure skating shows. He also was a strong supporter of Special Olympics. Mr. Walline enjoyed bowling, backgammon, gardening, snowblowing his neighbors’ sidewalks and musical theater. He helped his son Michael create the musical “Jamestown Gals: The Music of Lucille Ball and Peggy Lee,” for MusicalFare in 2009. He was a parishioner and religion instructor at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church. In later years, he developed a love for creative writing. He was a member of the Western New York Writing Project at Canisius College, an affiliate of the National Writing Project, and created a blog called “The Awakener,” which can be found on blogspot.com. Surviving are his wife of 49 years, the former Marjorie Caisse; three daughters, Martha Bouquin, Jennifer Chudyk and Megan; three sons, James Jr., Matthew and Michael; and a sister, Doris.
John French Wakeley - January 28, 2013, of Grand Island, beloved husband of 57 years of the late June (Franson) Wakeley; loving father of Gail (Steven) Dixon, Barbara (Henry) Starzynski, Frank (Judith) and Donna Wakeley; cherished grandfather of Michael and Jennifer Dixon, Henry Starzynski, Jillian, Jonathan and Jaclyn Wakeley; son of the late Frank and Florence Wakeley; brother of the late Nancy (late Donald) Ghent; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Funeral Services will be held Saturday at 1 PM at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Co. Mr. Wakeley retired after 41 years from Bell Aerospace and was a member of the Charles DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249. He loved golfing, fishing and vacationing in the Adirondacks. John and his late wife June would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on February 5.
Melissa Jean (Bish) Rogers - 49, of Green River, Wyoming died Friday, Jan. 25, 2013, after a short illness. She was born July 4, 1963, in Niagara Falls, N.Y., the daughter of C. Jean Bish and William A. Bish. She graduated from Grand Island High School in New York with the class of 1982.She worked at Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County. Her interests included riding her Harley, fishing, anything outside and being with her family. She is survived by her mother, C. Jean Bish of Green River; two sons, Josh Reed of Alaska and Rob Reed of New York; sister, Rebecca "Becky" and husband Robert Boyse; brother, Mark "Pudge" and wife Susan Bish of Green River; sister-in-law, Cheryl Bish of Lockport, N.Y.; three grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, lifelong friend of Michele Beauchamp. She was preceded in death by her father, William A. Bish; grandparents; and one brother, David J. Bish. A celebration of life will be conducted from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013, at the Golden Hour Senior Center, 550 Uinta Drive, Green River. The family asks attendees to dress casual in jeans and T-shirts.
Margaret B. (Young) Kownaski - January 27, 2013, of Grand Island; wife of Charles Kownaski; mother of Margaret J. (Brian) Moore; grandmother of Emlyn Moore; sister of Edward B. Young, Elizabeth A. Rivers and the late William T. Young and Diane F. Martini. Friends may call Thursday 4-7 PM, followed by a prayer service at 7 PM at the KAISER FUNERAL HOME, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo.
Robert K. Kumm - of Grand Island, NY, worked as a supervisor at the Niagara Falls wastewater treatment plant, died unexpectedly Thursday, January 24th in Kenmore Mercy Hospital after a brief illness. He was 61. Mr. Kumm was a 1969 graduate of LaSalle High School. He was a Vietnam War-era veteran of the Navy, serving from 1970 to 1974 aboard the USS Truckee, a fleet oiler. For more than 20 years, he was a supervisor at the Niagara Falls treatment facility, retiring in 2007. An avid sports fan and golfer, Mr. Kumm also enjoyed history. Son of Ruth (Colquhoun) Kumm of Niagara Falls, and late Elmer Kumm; beloved husband of Deborah (Gallo) Kumm; loving father of Jessica M. (Daniel) Shvimer of Grand Island; grandfather of Dylan Shvimer; brother of Joyce (Frank) Grenga, Joanne Kumm, Richard (Karen) Kumm, all of Niagara Falls; brother-in-law of Kathleen (James) Abbondanza of Lewiston, Michael (Sandra) Gallo of North Tonawanda, Janice (David) Reynolds, Janet (Stephen) Godzisz, both of Niagara Falls; also survived by many, nieces, nephews and cousins. Visitation will be Sunday from 4-8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL 2730 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY where Funeral Services will be held Monday at 11:00 AM. Interment with Military Honors in Riverdale Cemetery. Memorials to a charity of one's choice . Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.
Mathilde Reiner Witt - January 20, 2013, of Grand Island, wife of 52 years of the late Richard W. Witt, sister of Hedde Reiner of Bavaria, Germany. Funeral services private.
John Bayse, January 18, 2013, former Grand Island resident, beloved husband of Loretta J. (nee Griffin) Bayse; dearest father of Charles (Catherine Giras) Bayse, Sally (Jeffrey) Holbein of Pittsburgh, PA, and Judith (Robert) Kolmetz; loving grandfather of Heather, Matthew, Laurel, and Holly Holbein, all of Pittsburgh, PA, James (Nicole) Steffan, Kristin and Jacob Kolmetz; great-grandfather of Madison Steffan. He is also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call at a Family Gathering on Sunday from 1-2 PM at the Sauer-Lynett-AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, 1933 Kensington Ave., where a Memorial Service will follow at 2 PM. Please share your condolences at www.AMIGONE.com
Barbara E. Sterner - January 18, 2013, of Grand Island, beloved mother of Deborah (Bob) Whalen and Kenneth (Susan) Sterner Jr., devoted grandmother of Paul, Debbie and Sophia Sterner; dear sister of Bob (Jean) Buzby; aunt of Eric and Jeff Buzby. Funeral services will be private. Memorials may be made to the People Incorporated Foundation, 1219 North Forest Rd., Williamsville, NY 14221. Barb was kindhearted and loving, and focused on meeting the needs of others before her own. She enjoyed cooking and baking, canasta and was an avid New York Yankees fan. She will be sadly missed by all.
Bob Beach - A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2013 at the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. See details.
Peter R. Breads, founder and CEO of Great Lakes Orthodontics. May 20, 1937 - January 14, 2013 See obituary.
Claude "Bob" Pettitt - passed away Dec. 25, 2012 at the age of 88 in Dayton, Ohio. He was born on Jan. 22, 1924, and departed this life at home, with his beloved wife and sons by his side. Preceding him in death were his mother Anita Arnold Pettitt, father W.W. Pettitt, brother John W. Pettitt and former wife Doris (nee Hansler) Pettitt. Bob is survived by his cherished wife of 35 years, Dolores (nee Rafe) Pettitt; sons: Robert (Linda), Brian (Barbara), Jeffrey (Deborah); grandchildren: Shawna Mann (Michael), Michelle Cox (Jeremy), Robert W. and Marie Pettitt; and great-grandchildren: Ashleigh and Austin Mann. He is also survived by Dolores' children whom Bob treasured and loved as his own; Paul Rafe, Michael Rafe (Denise), Debra Taber (Keith), Laurie Hicks (Roger), Michele Rafe (Armand DeBan), Patricia Quarles (Paul), Mark Rafe (deceased), 21 grandchildren, Autumn Rollings (deceased), and 14 great-grandchildren. Bob proudly volunteered to serve his country as a United States Marine serving aboard the battleship U.S.S Massachusetts in the African and Pacific theaters during World War II. He was a life member of VFW Post 2800 where he served as quartermaster, in addition to being a life member of AMVETS.
A memorial service with full military honors was held in Dayton on Jan. 5th.
The family would like to thank the staff of Hospice of Dayton for their concern, compassion, and excellent care. Donations may be made in his memory to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45420
Traceylee (nee Beyer) Busch, former Grand Island, NY resident - Rest in peace; beloved daughter of Pete Beyer and Bonnie Chehok; devoted mother of Adam Busch, Ashley Busch, Andrew Ayler, Alex Holloway and Dillon Herlan; also grandmother and guardian of Karmine and Makayla Herlan and Lexie Busch; also survived by three brothers and two sisters. Services will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at Kenilworth United Church of Christ, 45 Dalton Drive, Buffalo, NY. Arrangements by the LABUDA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 356 Portage Road, Niagara Falls.
John A. McCarthy, January 16, 2013 of Grand Island. Husband of 56 years of Marlene McCarthy; father of Ronald (the late Marlena), Richard (Christy), Daniel (Jocelyn) and Timothy McCarthy; also survived by 6 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews; brother of Frances (Calvin) Voigt and Michael (Laura) McCarthy; son of the late Frank and Anna McCarthy. Friends may call Friday 3-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10:00 AM at St. Stephen's Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grand Island Lions Club, P.O. Box 71, Grand Island, NY.
James (Jamie) Duncan Milne, Master Sgt., Usaf (Ret.), December 12, 2012, in San Antonio, TX. He suffered a heart attack on May 25, 2012. James is survived by his wife Patricia and stepson Jason Adams; his parents, James and Kathleen Milne, The Villages, FL; two sisters, Debra Wirth (Tom) of Grand Island, NY and Lesley Pyjas (Tom) of Buffalo; uncle to Lindsey Shelton, Sara, Amanda and Adam El Houssieny. James was born in Niagara Falls, NY, March 27, 1970. A Celebration of Life for Jamie will take place on April 13, 2013 at Trinity Methodist Church, Grand Island at 10:00 a.m.
Robert A. Savoy, January 10, 2013 of Grand Island. Dearest husband of Mary Cardarella Savoy and the late Doreen Savoy; cherished father of Robert, Thomas (Charlotte), Nancy (Thomas) Savoy-Burke, Andrew (Leslie), Christopher (Elizabeth), Mark (Beverly) Savoy, Joan (James) Dlugokinski, Joel (Colleen) Cardarella, Beth (William) Stanley and the late Suzanne Savoy; loving grandfather of Jackson, Neil, Alec, Landon, Blake (Marina), Colin, Andrew, Grace, Iris, Shannon, Samantha (Luke), Suzanne, Nicole, Claudia, Gretchen, Matthew, Johnny, Kaylynn, Christopher, Michael and Megan; great-grandfather of Mason, Eleanor and Rileigh; brother of Donald and Neil Savoy. Friends may call Saturday 2-6 PM and Sunday 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to St. Stephen's Church, Grand Island, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10:00 AM.
Michael R. Paul, January 10, 2013, of Grand Island, NY, beloved husband of Rene Paul; loving father of Michael Paul Jr.; son of Robert, Cheryl and the late Patricia; brother of Melissa (Russ) Stuber, Laurie (Dean) Delo, Jared (Heather) and Kevin (Erin) Paul; survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Friday 4-8 PM and Saturday 10 AM-noon at the LESTER H. WEDEKINDT INC. FUNERAL HOME, 3290 Delaware Ave., where Funeral Services will be held Saturday at 12 noon. Friends invited. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the American Lung Association of WNY.
John Joseph Wesolek, January 9, 2013, of Grand Island; husband of Phyllis J. (Hardy) Burns Wesolek; father of David and Michael (Charlene) Wesolek and Donna (David) Witkowski; stepfather of Robert P. II (Penny) and Susan M. Burns, Patricia A. (Randall) Walters and Maureen J. (Kurt) Holme; grandfather of David and Kimberly Wesolek, Dean Witkowski, Sarah Rowland, Robert P. III, Thomas J. and James A. Burns, Christopher R. and Jonathan E. Walters, Nathan T., Evan W., Juliet M. and Ryan M. Holme; also survived by nine great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, where memorial services will be held Saturday at 1 PM.
Nicholas Rastelli, Of Grand Island, entered into rest January 9, 2013. Beloved husband of Carol L. (nee Grisanti) Rastelli; devoted father of Anita (Michael) Hawley, Tina (Jonathan) Taylor, Nicholas (Jennifer) Rastelli II, Tony Rastelli and Marty (Stacy) Rastelli; cherished grandfather of 15 grandchildren; loving son of the late Marino and Nancy Rastelli; dear brother of Enzo (late Jane) Rastelli, Andrea (Gloria) (late Kathy) Rastelli, Ida (John) Colling, Jeanette (Jack) Kelly, Marino (Judy) Rastelli Jr., Thomas (Chere) Rastelli and the late Anita Louise Rastelli; also survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME, (Northtowns Chapel) 885 Niagara Falls Blvd. near Eggert/Sheridan Dr. on Saturday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. The funeral service will be held at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church, 1290 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island on Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Nicholas served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Online condolences may be made at www.lombardofuneralhome.com
Josephine (nee Carini) Schooping, January 5, 2013, of Grand Island, beloved wife of the late Robert H. Schooping; cherished mother of Rob (Sue) Schooping, Marty (Karen) Schooping, Diane (Rich) Nassar and Jean Schooping; grandmother of Robbie, Carrie, Amy, Kelly, Eric and Brian Schooping; sister of Rose Miner, Mary Lou Jacobson, Jean Powell, Pauline Governale, Lou, Sam, John, Paul and the late Patrick Carini. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
Cristine (D'Ingillo) Amtsberg , Wednesday, January 2, 2013 in her Madison, Ohio home, in the arms of her husband, John Alan Amtsberg. Wife of John Amtsberg, mother of Michael Schneider, Matthew Schneider and Daniel Schneider; daughter of Colleen and the late Joseph D'Ingillo; sister of James (Karen), Jonathan A. and the late Joseph M. Dingillo. Cristine was a graduate of Grand Island High School, Class of 1969. A celebration of her life for friends and family will take place in the Spring
James J. Secord, January 2, 2013, of Grand Island; husband of Christine K. Secord, father of Pamela (Bill) Heidler, Susan (Daniel) Bright, Heather, James J. II, Laura and Eric (Elizabeth) Secord; also survived by six grandsons; son of Metha (Jackman) and the late Arthur Secord; brother of Janet (Doug) Wellman. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (www.lls.org), PO Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA 01202 or Bible Fellowship Center, 1136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island 14072.
Eva C. (nee Balauf) Collins, January 1, 2013, age 102. Beloved wife of the late Arthur J. Collins; dear mother of the late William B. (Barbara) Collins; loving grandmother of William and Sean Patrick. A Founders Day Service will be held Sunday, January 27, 2012 at 10 AM at St. Martins in the Field, Grand Island, N.
Richard Michael Clare, January 01, 2013 aged 50. Formerly of Grand Island. Graduating Class of 1980. Son of the late Michael Clare (Judy) and the late Jacqueline Andersen (late John). Rick leaves behind his dear and caring wife Judi, daughter Jacquie, two sons, Alex and Cory (Michelle), granddaughter Faith, sisters Tina (Ian), Mandy and Candi (Craig), brother Shane, nieces Amber, Megan, Katie, Lucy, and nephew Declan. Ricky will be fondly remembered and sadly missed. A Celebration of Life will be held at his home in Lexington, North Carolina this weekend.
